Chelsea are said to have prioritised a new deal for Reece James, and the Stamford Bridge skipper’s stance on signing a new contract with his boyhood club has now emerged.
Among Chelsea’s current senior squad, no player has a contract that expires in 2026 or 2027. Chelsea are well-placed in that regard, but that has not stopped the club from looking at other potential deals.
In January, it was claimed that Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Levi Colwill were requesting new and improved terms at Chelsea. But Colwill has a deal until 2029 with the option of a further year at Chelsea.
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Reece James' stats vs Aston Villa
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Caicedo is contracted until 2031 and Fernandez, until 2032. While interest from other clubs may tempt the Blues into offering Fernandez or Caicedo a new deal, they are not a priority. Reece James certainly is.
Reece James’ stance on signing a new Chelsea contract
According to TeamTalk, Chelsea want James to remain at Stamford Bridge until the day he retires. Many forget that James is still only 26, and already, the versatile star has clocked up 223 Chelsea appearances.
Reece James of Chelsea celebrates
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Chelsea have prioritised a new deal for James with his current deal expiring in 2028. Chelsea are keen to keep James in West London for his entire career, and James’ stance on a new deal is a positive one.
Indeed, James is understood to be keen on signing a new contract. Chelsea are said to recognise that James is an anomaly in the modern game, showing a surprising loyalty not seen among players now.
Furthermore, James is said to be keen on signing a new contract at Chelsea as he feels he owes to the club for keeping faith with him while injured. There is a belief that James will see out his career at Chelsea.
Is Reece James the current best player at Chelsea?
On Sunday, Chelsea struggled. Robert Sanchez and Pedro Neto were miles off the required standard, but if there was one who earned pass marks, it was James. He was arguably the best player on the pitch.
What makes Chelsea so much better defensively when Reece James is playing? 👇
As of February 15.
He reminded all watching, whether that be Chelsea fans, Liam Rosenior or even England manager Thomas Tuchel, of what he is capable of. James has had a tricky season with injury. At his best, he is unplayable.
There is no doubt that Chelsea are a poorer side without James, whether that be if he is in midfield or at right-back. Keeping James is as good as a big-name signing, keeping a player fans can relate to.
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