West Ham ahead of Atalanta for Birmingham midfielder James

The race for Birmingham City's teenage midfielder Jordan James is going into overdrive.

After their relegation this season to League One, Birmingham are expected to sell James this summer.

Atalanta remain keen, having failed with an attempt a year ago.

Journalist Alan Nixon is reporting Leicester City are interested, but West Ham are currently favourites. New Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui rates James, having also considered him for Wolves.

The 19 year-old is a senior Wales international.