Chelsea face a battle to keep hold of young defender Reece James.

The Sun says James is a shock target for Brighton in a £10million deal after some eye-catching displays.

The pacy right-back, 18, has starred on loan for Championship Wigan this season.

And the Seagulls have seen enough to line up James as a big signing and long-term replacement for Spanish defender Bruno, 38.

James is known to Albion's new director of football and ex-FA chief Dan Ashworth from his time with England's Under-20s.

Brighton plan to look at the domestic youth market for more signings — with Ashworth's knowledge a key addition to their team.

Ashworth has already been to see James playing for Wigan while also keeping an eye on Latics impressive midfielder Nick Powell, 24.