It looks like Reece James is set to remain at Chelsea next season and, for those who have been following his development at Wigan Athletic this term, that will come as no surprise.
Under Paul Cook, the 19-year-old has really impressed as both a right-back and midfielder, clearly showing enough at the DW Stadium to convince the Blues that he is both their present and future.
Not only do the west London club look keen on keeping him in the squad for the next campaign, but they also seem intent on having him in their ranks for years to come.
Despite still having three years to run on his current contract, according to The Independent, Chelsea are preparing to offer James a new long-term deal in the summer.
They will be hoping to have better luck than what they have had with Callum Hudson-Odoi and his contract talks. But at the end of the day, like the 18-year-old winger, James needs actual minutes on the pitch and not just half-hearted words from his manager and club.
Without them, this potential contract will just be an empty gesture — and there have been too many of those going around Stamford Bridge in recent years.
For young players such as James and Hudson-Odoi, game time, rather than new contracts, will show them how much they are truly valued by their club.
Chelsea fans, are you excited over the prospect of having James in your squad next season? Join the discussion by commenting below.
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