Reece James has committed his long-term future to Chelsea. The Blues' captain has signed a new six-year deal until 2032.
James has been an integral figure since being promoted to the first team in 2019. Not only has the 26-year-old become one of the side's most important players, but he has also established himself as arguably the best right-back in the country.
Thomas Tuchel is expected to underline his importance when naming his England squad for this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. If Reece James remains fit, the Chelsea man is likely to start at right-back during the Three Lions' tournament opener against Croatia on June 17.
Reece James signs new Chelsea contract until 2032
Despite injury setbacks, this season has still seen Reece James produce an almost faultless campaign. The academy graduate has made 35 appearances in all competitions, including 26 in the Premier League — his highest number of games since 2020.
Clearly acknowledging James' commitment and determination, Chelsea's hierarchy have moved quickly to tie the Englishman down.
Although there were little concerns over James' future, the talismanic full-back has quashed any future suggestions he could leave the only club he has ever known.
According to The Athletic, James has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him at Stamford Bridge well into his prime years.
The defender’s previous contract, which ran until 2028, was reportedly worth £250,000 per week. His new deal will increase those earnings under an “incentivised wage structure” introduced by BlueCo following their 2022 takeover.
James on course for legendary Chelsea status
One of our own, James, who joined the Blues' youth academy when he was just six-years-old, is undoubtedly one of the club's biggest success stories in recent history.
The 26-year-old enjoyed major success as youth level, lifting both the FA Youth Cup and under-18s league twice, before going on to lift more major honours at senior level.
James was part of the Chelsea team that beat Manchester City to win the 2020-21 Champions League final. He has also won the European Super Cup, last season's Europa Conference League and the 2022 and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
It isn't just trophies the 26-year-old will have his eyes on though. Having already represented Chelsea's first-team 225 times, James will be aiming to break into the club's most appearances list, rivalling the likes of John Terry (492) and Frank Lampard (429).