Reece James is reportedly close to putting pen to paper on a new long-term deal with Chelsea.
The 22-year-old still has three years left to run on his contract at Stamford Bridge, but the defender has allegedly been looking for a pay rise to reflect his importance to the side.
There has also been speculation surrounding his future in recent months, with Manchester City and Real Madrid believed to be admirers of the England international.
Earlier this summer, James - thought to be on £80,000 a week under the terms of his current deal - revealed that he wanted to sign a new long-term contract with the Blues.
"I'd like to think so (remain at the club). I grew up as a Chelsea fan and I made my name playing for Chelsea the club I've always supported. I don't see why that would change, I play for Chelsea now and I'm enjoying it," James told BBC Sport.
© Reuters
James was again a key player for Chelsea during the 2021-22 campaign, making 39 appearances in all competitions, contributing six goals and 10 assists in the process.
The defender helped the Blues finish third in the Premier League table last season, in addition to reaching the finals of the FA Cup and EFL Cup, and he has already made four appearances this term, contributing one goal and one assist in the process.
According to The Times, James is in advanced negotiations with Chelsea over a new contract, with a deal potentially being announced at the start of next week.
The Englishman missed out against Southampton in the Premier League on Tuesday evening through illness but is available for Saturday's London derby with West Ham United.
"It's an exciting time. Not much changes from the players or the management point of view. Our aim is still the same to win every competition we're in and win every game," James said when discussing his team's ambitions for the 2022-23 campaign.
© Reuters
"There's no reason why we can't do that. For sure last season we had a lot of injuries. Myself and a lot of other players had long spells out. Around Christmas time we were top of the table and injuries affected us a lot.
"This season if our team can stay fit and healthy there's no reason we can't be in and around it again."
The defender has represented the Blues on 127 occasions in all competitions, contributing 10 goals and 20 assists in the process, including seven goals and 15 assists in 86 Premier League appearances.
Chelsea have lost two of their last three Premier League games against Leeds United and Southampton, and they will follow Saturday's clash against West Ham with their Champions League opener at Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday night.
