Chelsea defender Reece James has signed a new five-and-a-half-year contract, extending his stay at Stamford Bridge until at least 2025.

The 20-year-old academy graduate has made an impressive breakthrough into the first-team squad this season, already making 18 appearances in total under Frank Lampard. 

James spent last season on loan at Wigan in the Championship, where he was an ever-present member in the starting line-up and included in the league’s team of the season. 

He attracted widespread interest from Premier League clubs over the summer, including a £25m offer from Crystal Palace, however, he has now committed his future to Chelsea.

“It has been my dream to be here at Chelsea and play week in week out and to have a contract for another five-and-a-half years is living the dream again,” James said.

“I have always wanted to be here and another five-and-a-half years means a lot to me and a lot to my family.”

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia added: “The smooth way Reece has fitted into the team so quickly despite missing the start of the season has been clear for everyone to see, and the fact another exciting young player is part of the future of the club is a result of great work by our Academy, our loans department, our new coaching staff and of course the player himself.

“Reece started his football education with us at the age of six and his performances on loan at Wigan last season paved the way for a strong beginning to his career in the Chelsea team. We are very pleased he now has the perfect opportunity to build on that and become a major player for us for many years to come.”

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