Man City set their sights on Champions League winner as they aim to find replacement for experienced star

Manchester City are reportedly in the market to sign a defender to fill the boots of Kyle Walker in years to come.

Walker has been a vital part of Pep Guardiola’s success since his arrival from Tottenham in 2017 and has established himself as one of the best full backs in Premier League history.

Over the course of six seasons he has helped the club win five league titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the Champions League for the first time in the team’s history.

Walker has grown from a pacey attacking full back to an all-round defender capable of containing some of the best wingers in world football.

The 33-year-old has captained the club for large stages of the season, due to the absence of Kevin De Bruyne and remains one of the club’s most important players as they look to win a fourth consecutive title.

However, that has not stopped Guardiola from looking towards the future, according to reports from the Independent.

The outlet believes that one name who is highly rated by Guardiola is Chelsea star Reece James. 

The 23-year-old is blessed with many similar qualities to Walker with his high pace, strength and excellent crossing ability. He is also viewed as a leader in the Blues dressing room and has recently been appointed as the club’s captain after the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta.

James emerged from the Chelsea academy in 2018 and has been a regular first team fixture for the last four years after a successful one-year loan spell with Wigan Athletic in League One.

The right back was promoted to the Blues first team by Frank Lampard and has developed into one of the club’s most important players - winning the Champions League, FA Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and Community Shield.

The defender has struggled with injuries and his team have found it hard in his absence to reach the same standards as they finished in the bottom half last term.

James’ return to the lineup has directly coincided with Chelsea’s upturn in form this season and he made a huge impression during his sides recent 4-4 draw with the Citizens and provided the crucial assists for Raheem Sterling’s first half goal.

Walker is under contract with Manchester City until 2026, while Reece James signed a long term deal last summer which takes him until the summer of 2028.