Leeds United ‘strong interest’ in Ethan Ampadu-inspired midfielder amid PL competition – Report

Jordan James sees Ethan Ampadu as an inspiration at country level

It wouldn’t be such a shock to see Leeds look to sign James given the Welsh connection forming at Elland Road with Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu and Dan James, while Connor Roberts has made himself at home for half a season in 2024.

The young midfielder has become a key part of the Wales squad right now, alongside Leeds’ star players, and James credits the 52-capped Ampadu as an inspiration, speaking via LeedsLive in March:

“Ethan is a top player, I’m inspired to be like him. To get 50 caps at 23 is something I want to do. I hope I can follow in his footsteps and have the career he will have.

“The more games you play with each other, the better you will be. I’m starting to know what he’s going to do with the ball so I can react. We work really well with each other, which is great.”

Jordan James would be a great signing for Leeds

He is not the finished article yet, but James would be a real coup for Leeds knowing they would have another Premier League talent there.

It remains to be seen where he ends up as somewhere like Ipswich would make a lot of sense for him too under a great manager.

However, in terms of development at this point, a jump back to the championship makes a lot of sense for James to continue to progress.

How much Birmingham are asking is another debate, but you’d imagine James would be keen on the move.