Key events
Reece James signs new six-year deal with Chelsea
Jacob Steinberg
Reece James has committed his future to Chelsea by signing a new six-year deal. The club captain’s previous contract expired in 2028 but he has agreed terms on an extension. The move will quash any prospect of the right-back, who came through Chelsea’s academy, leaving on a free transfer.
The England international, who signed his previous deal shortly after the takeover by a consortium led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, is understood to have agreed terms in line with Chelsea’s incentivised pay structure. James had enjoyed a fine season and having previously struggled with fitness problems he has largely managed to stay injury free. He is expected to be a key player for England at this summer’s World Cup.
Arne Slot’s been speaking to reporters ahead of his side’s meeting with Spurs on Sunday. He’s hoping that Alisson, who missed Liverpool’s loss at Galatasaray on Tuesday, will train today.
“He’s been with the physios and rehabbed until now,” said Slot. “We are training today and let’s see if he can join the team session. That’s something I expect but I am not 100% sure because I have not spoken to him or the medical staff this morning. I am hopeful.”
Preamble
Right then, English football has had a tough time of it in Europe this week, Aston Villa the only winners across nine games (Unai Emery always delivers in the Europa). So perhaps a return to domestic life is something to be welcomed. Manchester City got the Valverde treatment but they’re still very much in the title race; Nottingham Forest went down to Midtjylland but they’re getting closer and closer to Tottenham in the table. The good news for Spurs? Um, come back to me on that one.
