Chelsea is reportedly considering entering the race to sign Kyle Walker-Peters during the January transfer window as they look for cover for the injured right-back Reece James. Southampton may be open to selling the versatile two-cap England international, who has also caught the attention of West Ham United.

According to respected talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook, Chelsea, led by Stamford Bridge chief Mauricio Pochettino, might target Walker-Peters due to his versatility, especially since there are no signs of him signing a new contract with Southampton.

The Blues are concerned about the prolonged absence of their first-choice right-back Reece James until March due to a hamstring injury. This has led to Malo Gusto, a £26.3 million signing from Lyon, regularly filling in, but Walker-Peters could become a target for Pochettino in the coming weeks.

If a suitable bid is submitted, Southampton may be tempted to cash in on Walker-Peters before the transfer window closes. West Ham United is also monitoring the situation, looking to potentially enter negotiations. Chelsea, who have been admirers of Walker-Peters for a long time, considered luring him from Southampton nearly 18 months ago. Statistics indicate that he could be an ideal alternative option to James at Stamford Bridge.

Walker-Peters is in the final year-and-a-half of his £20,000-per-week contract at St Mary’s, and Southampton is aware that his value could decrease if they don’t sell him before the February 1 deadline or negotiate fresh terms ahead of the summer. Southampton had set a £20 million price tag on Walker-Peters when Chelsea’s west London rivals Fulham expressed interest before the start of the season, but a move to Craven Cottage did not materialize.

Respected journalist Ben Jacobs previously mentioned that the 26-year-old would be open to joining Arsenal, but he sought assurances over playing time before deciding to stay with Russell Martin’s Saints as they aim for an immediate return to the Premier League.