Chelsea star Reece James has signed a new-long term contract with the club after much speculation over his future.
Having come through the Cobhams academy at the club, the 22-year-old has risen through the ranks and is now one of Thomas Tuchel’s most important players.
Over the course of the summer window, James was linked with moves to Manchester City and Real Madrid although there was a feeling that none of these links were ever genuine to start with.
Showing his commitment to the Blues, the right-back has now signed a six-year contract that will keep him at the club until 2028.
What has been said
After convincing James to put pen to paper over a new deal, club chairman, Todd Boehly, said: “We are thrilled to give Reece a new long-term contract at Chelsea. He is an outstanding player and a true Chelsea man, and we are all looking forward to watching him continue to flourish at Stamford Bridge.”
Behdad Eghbali and José E. Feliciano, co-controlling owners, added: “Reece is a very special footballer and one we love having at Chelsea under our ownership. His blend of physical and technical ability is a huge asset to our team now and for many years to come.”
Speaking on the new contract, Reece James said: “I am over the moon with my new contract and I’m thankful for the fans, the new ownership and everyone involved in the club. I cannot wait to see what the future holds, and I am sure we will have the chance of winning many trophies.”
“I grew up supporting this club and I’ve been here since I was a six-year-old. I put pen to paper on a new deal because this is the club I want to be at. I’d like to say a special thanks to the fans, I am here to stay and we have a bright future ahead of us.”
What next for James?
It has been claimed by several outlets that the new deal will make James the highest paid defender in Chelsea’s history, with the England star expected to earn at least £250,000-a-week.
The 22-year-old is competing for a place in England’s starting XI for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar this year and will hope to boost his chances of making the right-back spot his own by continuing his strong performances for the London side.
It is a big positive for Chelsea to keep James, especially in a summer where they were hit with a number of key departures in defence.
For now, James is the undisputed right-back under Tuchel and this new deal only goes to show that the club have much faith in the youngster.
