West Ham are among the teams monitoring 19-year-old defensive prodigy situation ahead of the January window when he returns from his loan back to Exeter City

The 19-year-old may be leaving Exeter City when he rejoins the team during the January transfer window after spending time on loan at Yeovil Town, according to a close source.

A small number of teams are expressing interest in the 19-year-old defensive prodigy ahead of the winter transfer window, including West Ham United.

Ed James has been playing well for Yeovil Town in the National League, and some of his performances could lead to a significant promotion up the football hierarchy.

When the January transfer window opens, he is anticipated to return to his parent club, Exeter City, for his immediate future.

Since Ed James’ contract with Exeter City expires in 2026, there may be some pressure to settle his future because he will undoubtedly be able to play for them on a regular basis.

Higher levels of English football are showing interest in the 19-year-old defensive prodigy, though, as he may be able to play in the Championship or possibly sign with a Premier League team.

According to the source, Norwich City is a potential suitor; Ed James’ advancement would probably be best served by the Championship team.

He might not rule out the possibility of joining a top-tier team, though, as West Ham United and Southampton are interested in signing him.

The potential to bring the Weslhman will entice those Premier League sides in this day and age of PSR rules, which force clubs to place greater emphasis on homegrown talents.

While Ed James will end up costing decent money, it may not be in the range of some of the more prodigious youngsters at clubs higher up the English football pyramid.

West Ham is keeping an eye on Ed James’s progress every week, so the team is aware of him. Some of the Hammers’ recent acquisitions show that they are keen to assemble a youthful core for the future.

Along with Ed James, they can consider developing these guys, and they are also pursuing James McAtee.

It may seem obvious to transfer a player who is currently playing in the National League to the Premier League, but it’s not that simple.

The 19-year-old defensive star may put his playing time ahead of a transfer to a major league team, which could make it difficult for the Hammers to persuade him to join them rather than a side where he plays with regularity.