Reece James can be a major player at Chelsea for many years to come.
That's the view of Blues director Marina Granovskaia
The defender has signed a new five-year deal with the Blues as a reward for a successful loan spell at Wigan Athletic last season as well as a strong start to this season under Frank Lampard.
In 18 appearances across all competitions, James has found the back of the net twice - including a goal on his senior debut - and has impressed many with his crossing ability.
With Euro 2020 on the horizon there have been some shouts for James to make the 23-man squad.
And according to Granovskaia, James is now ready to establish himself as a key player for the Blues as they challenge for honours in the top flight of English football.
"The smooth way Reece has fitted into the team so quickly despite missing the start of the season has been clear for everyone to see, and the fact another exciting young player is part of the future of the club is a result of great work by our Academy, our loans department, our new coaching staff and of course the player himself," Granovskaia told Chelseafc.com.
"Reece started his football education with us at the age of six and his performances on loan at Wigan last season paved the way for a strong beginning to his career in the Chelsea team.
"We are very pleased he now has the perfect opportunity to build on that and become a major player for us for many years to come."
Moments after putting pen-to-paper on a new contract, James sat down to reflect.
"It has been my dream to be here at Chelsea and play week in week out and to have a contract for another five-and-a-half years is living the dream again," James said.
"I have always wanted to be here and another five-and-a-half years means a lot to me and a lot to my family."
James is the latest Chelsea academy player to commit his future to the west London outfit this season.
Callum Hudson-Odoi, Mason Mount, Fikayo Tomori and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have all signed new contracts which means the future is certainly looking bright for the Blues.
Could Tammy Abraham be next in line?
