Signing No.11? Wrexham in talks for 21-year-old Wales international who used to play for Tom Brady's Birmingham

According to journalist Anthony Joseph, Wrexham have initiated talks with Rennes to secure a move for James, who remains the Welsh side's primary target in the central midfield position. The 21-year-old Wales international, who moved to France from Tom Brady-owned Birmingham City last summer, still has three years left on his existing Rennes deal.

The report adds that the Red Dragons have also included Southampton’s Will Smallbone on their midfield shortlist in case they miss out on James. L’Equipe reported last week that Rennes could demand a fee in the region of €5 million (£4.3m/$5.8m) to sell the young central midfielder, who appeared in 25 matches across all competitions in the 2024-25 campaign.

James could be Wrexham's 11th signing of the summer transfer window. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have spent more than £30 million ($40.5m) to make a squad that can be competitive in the English second tier. The club's journey in the Championship, however, has been a nightmare so far, picking up just one point from their first three matches.

Phil Parkinson's side will be back in action on Tuesday as they take on Preston in a second round Carabao Cup clash.