Premier League champions Manchester City are firming up their interest in Chelsea captain Reece James.

Pep Guardiola is looking to the future and will eventually have to address the right-back position as Kyle Walker approaches 34.

The England international almost left the Etihad in the summer but was convinced to stay by his Catalan coach, instead signing a new contract until 2026.

But if Walker cannot continue to compete at the level expected in Manchester, then the Citizens will pounce on a deal for 23-year-old James, according to the Manchester Evening News.

The Cobham graduate has missed seven of Chelsea's 12 Premier League matches so far this season but adds a huge amount of quality to the side when he is fit.

Having now overcome a hamstring injury, James will be looking to press on in a leading role at Stamford Bridge and earn his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024.

City usually have no problem signing Europe's top talents but they could struggle to prise James away from his boyhood club without paying a mammoth fee.

The 16-cap international is contracted at the Blues until 2028 and may not want to leave West London anytime soon as he leads Mauricio Pochettino's side through a complicated rebuild.

In other news

Spanish sources claim Saudi Pro League sides are willing to offer nearly £100million for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Liverpool have sent scouts to watch Leeds youngster Archie Gray, who is impressing in the Championship, according to Caught Offside. 

Reports from Football London suggest Arsenal would be willing to offer Emile Smith Rowe and cash in exchange for Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz.