Top News

Manchester United’s pursuit of Ederson appears set to derail Leicester City’s hopes of securing a return for Jordan James, as Atalanta have identified the midfielder as a potential replacement for the departing Brazilian.

According to reports from the Manchester Evening News, United have reached an agreement with Atalanta on a £34 million transfer fee, with an additional £3.8 million in performance-related add-ons. Further details from Patreon suggest that Atalanta have already approached Rennes to discuss a move for James as Ederson’s successor.

The 21-year-old Welsh midfielder impressed during his loan spell from Rennes, netting 11 goals and providing four assists in 34 Championship appearances. His performances earned him a clean sweep of Leicester City’s end-of-season awards, including Young Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, and Player of the Season. Although his loan deal included a £4–5 million buy option, the club’s relegation to League One has made a permanent transfer unlikely.

In addition to Atalanta’s interest, Villarreal are also believed to have submitted an offer for James and are awaiting a response from Rennes. Several other English sides are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.

Reflecting on his time at Leicester, James told The Independent, “I’ll forever be grateful for what they gave me. Obviously, you build friendships and relationships with your teammates and you’re seeing them suffer because they’ve obviously got longer contracts and that.”

James confirmed his exit last month through a post on social media, where he described the campaign as frustrating, expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support, and extended best wishes to both the club and its supporters for the future.