Chelsea put Reece James contract extension at top of summer priorities
Beyond the expected new arrivals, Chelsea are also looking to secure new deals for key players, with Reece James at the top of their list.
Liam Rosenior is expected to lead another busy window, targeting additions in goal, at centre-back, and in midfield, along with a proven goalscorer.
The summer will see more movement as Chelsea’s loan players return to Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, Geovany Quenda and Emanuel Emegha will finally join up with the squad after completing moves from Sporting Lisbon and Strasbourg.
In addition to strengthening through the market, Chelsea are focusing on contract renewals. The club has identified Marc Cucurella and Reece James as their main priorities following the end of this campaign.
Why Chelsea chose to focus on James’ new deal
It’s worth noting that none of the current squad members are set to be out of contract in 2026 or 2027. However, several deals are due to expire by the summer of 2028.
James and Cucurella both fall into that category, along with Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Gabriel Slonina and Teddy Sharman-Lowe. According to TeamTalk, a new contract for James is being prioritised ahead of discussions with Cucurella.
The contracts for Chalobah and Tosin aren’t under review at the moment. There have been reports suggesting Chelsea are open to moving both centre-backs, along with Benoit Badiashile. James and Cucurella remain central figures in the squad’s plans.
Chelsea shifts focus away from Fernandez and Caicedo contract talks
Back in January, reports emerged that Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and the sidelined Levi Colwill were all seeking new contracts. All three are important to the squad, even with Colwill missing the season through injury.
Colwill’s current deal runs through to 2029, with the club holding an option for an extra year. Meanwhile, Caicedo is signed until 2031 and Fernandez until 2032.
For now, Chelsea appears to be prioritising contracts closer to expiry. James is expected to be first in line for a renewal, with Cucurella likely next before attention turns back to players like Fernandez.