Ex-Sunderland defender signs for newly-promoted Championship side amidst Elliot Embleton talk

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Blackpool have announced the signing of former left-back Reece James on an initial three-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.

The Black Cats signed the defender in 2018-19 before selling him to Doncaster a season later.

But James will now join the newly-promoted Championship side Blackpool upon the expiry of his contract at Doncaster on July 1 after their win against Lincoln City at Wembley.

The 27-year-old becomes Neil Critchley’s first signing of the summer ahead of the 2021-22 campaign with the Seasiders also reportedly interested in Elliot Embleton following his recent successful loan stint.

Reece James of Sunderland celebrates at the full-time whistle after the Sky Bet League One match between Gillingham and Sunderland at Priestfield Stadium on August 22, 2018 in Gillingham, United Kingdom.

Speaking to Blackpool’s official website, James said: “As I knew there was a bit of interest, it was something that I really wanted to follow up and jump at.

“Playing in the Championship was something that I’d set out to do following what had happened in the season, so it was a massive pull to come here.”

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Ex-Sunderland defender signs for newly-promoted Championship side amidst Elliot Embleton talk

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor