James is expected to leave St Andrew’s following Birmingham City’s relegation from the Championship. He has previously attracted interest from Atalanta, Fiorentina, Crystal Palace, and Wolves.
According to journalist Alan Nixon, the Hammers are now leading the chase for the 19-year-old, who has earned 10 caps for his country since making his international debut away to Croatia in March last year.
New West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui is believed to be particularly keen on James, having shown interest in him while managing at Molineux. However, Nixon suggests that Lopetegui could face competition from Championship winners Leicester City, who are looking to build a squad capable of competing in the Premier League.
Cymru boss Rob Page has already tipped James to reach the very top, and it seems likely that he will move on this summer.
“I think he has proven at top international level, against top midfielders in Croatia, to name one team, that he is more than capable of playing at that level as a number six,” Page said earlier this week. “I know there is definitely interest. I would not be surprised if he is gone. We will have to wait and see.
