According to reports, the total cost of a deal for Jordan James, including wages and agent fees, could become unaffordable for Boro if West Ham, Wolves, and/or Burnley act on their interest. The other three clubs possess a £40m advantage from Parachute Payments received after their relegation from the Premier League. They have also generated additional revenue through player sales.

Burnley, West Ham United, Wolves, and Middlesbrough are among several parties interested in signing 22-year-old Welsh international Jordan James from his parent club, Rennes. The midfielder spent last season on loan at Leicester and is reportedly ready to move to the Championship. Rennes is seeking a permanent transfer fee of £10 million and is not interested in another loan deal for the player. James has 26 caps and one goal for Wales, and his contract with the French club runs until 2028. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €12.00m.