Wolves ‘open talks’ in surprise swoop for £10m Newcastle United target

Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly become the latest club to contact Birmingham City with an enquiry for wonderkid midfielder Jordan James.

The Old Gold, albeit walking a precarious tightrope to adhere to Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, are said to be keen on adding further strength to their midfield. Transfer target James, who has scored six goals in 13 Sky Bet Championship starts and 13 substitute appearances, has become one of the English second tier's most sort-after players.

The Daily Mail reports Wolves have lodged an official enquiry to Birmingham for James but face immediate competition from Crystal Palace, who have also been in contact. Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion have been linked over recent weeks, too, while Italian Serie A side Atalanta had two bids - of £3 million and £4 million - rejected at the start of January.

Blues are sticking to their valuation of James, with around £10 million wanted to let the eight-time Wales international leave. Still only 19 years of age, many would assume James has only just broken into the Birmingham first team but he's already got 89 senior appearances to his name – including 89 in the Championship.

James' best roles are as a six or an eight but he can play anywhere in midfield, including on the flanks. He may not be the quickest but his drive to get forward, as well as his technical ability, make him a real threat. The former England Under-20 international is also a clinical finisher with both feet.