Chelsea defender Reece James has vowed to help the Blues to more silverware after penning a new six-year deal at Stamford Bridge.
The West London club announced that the right-back had committed his future to 2028 with new owner Todd Boehly prioritising extending James’ stay - his previous contract set to expire in 2025. He is now reportedly one of the highest-paid defenders in Chelsea’s history and supporters will no doubt be delighted to see James pen fresh terms having seen him become a key cog under Thomas Tuchel.
It is understood James' new deal is worth £250,000 a week, making him the highest-paid defender in Chelsea's history. After the news of his extended stay was confirmed, the 22-year-old expressed his delight at finally putting pen to paper and made a vow of attempting to lift more silverware in the remainder of his career at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, he 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.”
James has of course already experienced glory with Chelsea having claimed the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in his time with the first-team.
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The young defender initially made his breakthrough during an eye-catching loan spell with Wigan Athletic before being handed a role in the Chelsea side the following season under Frank Lampard.
He has gone on to represent the Blues on 128 occasions in all competitions since and has developed a reputation as one of the most effective forward-thinking defenders in the Premier League.
He enjoyed arguably his best season last term as he scored on six occasions and notched ten assists, only to see injury curtail the closing months of the campaign. However, he has picked up exactly where he left off with a number of impressive performances this season.
James’ displays for Chelsea have also been good enough for international recognition having racked up 13 appearances for the England side under Gareth Southgate.
Amid the news about his new deal, Blues owner 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.”
