​The transfer window chaos is reaching a fever pitch, and West Ham United are preparing to throw a massive wrench into the race for one of the summer’s most sought-after midfielders. As the Hammers look to reshape their squad following a turbulent campaign, former Rennes star Jordan James has emerged as a prime target to bolster their engine room.

​However, securing the 22-year-old’s signature won’t be a walk in the park. With Championship rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers locked in active talks with his French club, West Ham are facing a race against time to hijack a deal before it crosses the finish line.

​The Race for Jordan James Heats Up

​James caught the eye of scouts across English football during an impressive, standout loan spell at Leicester City last season. Even as the Foxes struggled collectively, the Welsh international’s individual performances earned him rave reviews and widespread praise, including award nominations and intense interest from top-flight suitors.

​Now, with his future at Rennes up in the air, a return to English football appears all but guaranteed. While several Premier League outfits—including Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, and Everton, alongside Leeds United—have monitored his situation throughout the year, the battle for his signature is rapidly narrowing down.

​According to exclusive insights from former West Ham scout Mick Brown speaking to Football Insider, the Hammers are readying a potential late move. Having already completed the signing of Arne Engels from Celtic, manager Nuno Espírito Santo’s side is eager to add further dynamism and depth to their midfield before the window slams shut.

​Mick Brown Sounds a Note of Caution

​Despite West Ham’s active interest, experts remain split on whether James is ready to make an immediate impact at the highest level. Brown acknowledged that while the club’s recruitment team is fully aware of his profile, caution is warranted.

​“Jordan James is somebody who West Ham are very much aware of,” Brown told Football Insider.

​“They’ll have had scouts keeping a close eye on his performances last season, they’ll know his pros and cons, and the fact he seems to be available this summer. The problem is, they’re not the only ones, because there are other clubs who have also been impressed by him and are looking to lure him back to English football.”

​Offering a frank assessment of the midfielder’s stock, Brown added:

​“Personally, I’m not entirely convinced that being a standout player in a terrible, relegated Leicester City team makes you good enough to make a big step up. But West Ham will know about him, and if they feel he ticks enough boxes, they could make an offer because they do want to strengthen in midfield. It’s one of the positions that has been a priority there for a while… James could certainly be somebody they make a late move for if he is still available, it’s just a case of watch this space.”

​Wolves Hold the Pole Position

​As things stand, Wolverhampton Wanderers are sitting comfortably in the driver’s seat. Wolves are aggressively targeting an immediate return to the Premier League and have already opened direct negotiations with Rennes to secure James’s services.

​Barring a dramatic late twist or a lucrative counter-offer from the London Stadium, Molineux looks the most likely destination for the talented midfielder. Yet, with West Ham lurking in the wings and considering a last-minute swoop, this high-stakes transfer saga could still deliver a massive twist before the window closes.

​Keep your eyes peeled—the battle for Jordan James is coming down to the wire, and the fallout will impact the promotion and survival races alike!