Chelsea have been handed a boost as Todd Boehly has instigated talks with Reece James over a new contract this week, according to reports in England.
The 22-year-old was one of Chelsea’s most impressive performers last season.
The wing-back scored six goals and registered a further 10 assists over the course of 39 matches.
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However, James spent a spell on the sidelines through injury as the Blues struggled in his absence.
Cesar Azpilicueta, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Christian Pulisic were often tasked with filling in for James but struggled to match both his offensive and defensive output on the right for the Blues.
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel previously admitted that he believes James can go on to build a legacy at Stamford Bridge to match that of N’Golo Kante’s.
He said: "He (James) has everything that it takes to be one of the very best, but there is a long way to go for Reece.
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"There is some incredible potential and he has the ability, the foundation, the body, the physique, the mindset to make his way to the very top, but there is still a long way to go.
"We will support him. We will push him so he can be that player for Chelsea."
The German also praised James’ performances throughout the season, admitting that he is surprised that the Blues finished as high as they did in the Premier League after the wing-back spent much of the season injured.
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Speaking on his absences throughout the season, Tuchel said: "When I see Reece James play and we missed him for 12 weeks, I am very impressed we are still in the top three."
The head coach has now been handed a boost as the Telegraph report that Boehly has made the first move in James’ contract extension talks.
The American co-owner named himself as the interim sporting director following Marina Granovskaia’s exit and has put his plans in place to keep James at the club after his 2024 contract expiry.
The report states that this week Boehly has made the first move to instigate talks over a new deal for James.
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It was previously revealed that the Boehly-Clearlake Capital consortium had made it their priority to tie James and Mason Mount to long-term and improved contracts.
It is unclear as to when talk with Mount will begin, but looking to tie James down early on into their tenure will be a positive for the Blues.
James has received interest from the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid as Chelsea look to fend off interest to keep their star.
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Mount has also reportedly been eyed up by the likes of Barcelona and Liverpool.
The pair came through the Cobham academy together and have cemented their place as first team regulars.
Therefore, Boehly's desire to keep the pair at Stamford Bridge will no doubt please both the fans and Tuchel himself as they look to challenge for the Premier League next season.
Topics: Chelsea, Reece James, Thomas Tuchel, Todd Boehly, Football, Premier League
Nick Emms