Reece James has signed a new six-year contract with Chelsea FC that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032.
The 26-year-old defender and club captain, who graduated from Chelsea’s academy, made his senior debut for the club in September 2019. His new contract reportedly includes an incentive-based structure tied to both individual performances and team achievements.
James is currently Chelsea’s highest-paid player, earning about £250,000 per week. His previous contract, signed shortly after the club’s takeover by Todd Boehly and investment firm Clearlake Capital in 2022, was originally set to run until 2028.
So far this season, James has started 19 of his 26 appearances in the Premier League and has made 225 appearances for Chelsea across all competitions.
Speaking to the club’s official website after signing the deal, James expressed his commitment to the team.
“I am over the moon to have extended my contract – Chelsea means so much to me. I have always said I want my peak years to be here.”
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During his time at the club, James has played a key role in several major successes, including Chelsea’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League in 2021 and the UEFA Super Cup later that same year.
He was also part of the squad that won the UEFA Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.
James was appointed Chelsea captain three years ago and has been praised for his leadership growth, particularly following earlier criticism during the tenure of former head coach Enzo Maresca.
Negotiations for the new contract reportedly progressed quickly, with the player encouraged by his recovery after several injury setbacks. James underwent surgery in December 2023 to address a recurring hamstring problem.
Despite those challenges, he has remained a crucial figure for the Blues, capable of playing both as a full-back and in midfield.
On the international stage, James has also set his sights on earning a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad for England national football team.
He returned to international action in early 2025 after a two-year absence, featuring in qualification matches against Albania national football team and Latvia national football team, and later played in England’s 2–0 win over Serbia national football team at Wembley Stadium.
