The Chelsea captain's previous deal was set to expire in 2028, but James has put pen to paper on his next deal early.

James came through Chelsea's academy, originally signing at the age of six, before briefly joining Fulham for a year and then returning to Chelsea, where he worked his way up and made his first-team debut in September 2019.

He has gone on to make 225 appearances for the Blues in all competitions, winning the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Conference League, UEFA Super Cup, and two FIFA Club World Cup titles.

"I am over the moon to have extended my contract – Chelsea means so much to me," he said.

"I have always said I want my peak years to be here, and I truly believe we have everything it takes to build on our previous successes.

"I'm excited for the future under this ownership, sporting directors, coach and all the staff, and hopefully we will lift many more trophies together over the coming years."

James, who has scored 16 goals and provided 30 assists in all competitions for Chelsea, was named club captain in 2023 after the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta.

This season in the Premier League, James has helped to keep four clean sheets, while only Moises Caicedo (71) has made more tackles than the 26-year-old (47).

"I can't stop smiling because we've secured the best footballer in the world in his position," Blues coach Liam Rosenior said of James during his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Newcastle United.

"He had many opportunities to leave this club. It's not just about the size and the stature of the club that he's come through; it's about his belief and confidence in what we're doing and where we want to go. We've had many conversations about it.

"For him to sign a deal and put his faith in us is a massive step.

"When you see Reece from afar, you admire him. He can play many different positions technically, he can score goals, defend, his athleticism.

"The thing that impresses me most is his humility. You realise why he's having and will have the career he's had as captain of Chelsea. He will be our leader for as long as I'm here."

Chelsea has also announced Reece James's sister, England international Lauren, has also extended her contract with the club until 2030.

The 24-year-old's previous deal was set to expire in 2027, but she will now remain with the Blues for another four years.

James played for Chelsea in her youth career before rejoining the Blues in 2021, after a three-year spell with Manchester United.

Since returning to Chelsea, James has scored 31 goals in 105 appearances, while she has won four Women's Super League titles and three FA Cups.

She will also be going for her second League Cup trophy on Monday (AEDT), when Chelsea faces Manchester United in the final.

"It's been my club since I was young. I can't wait to make more memories, hopefully have more success and win more trophies with this amazing club," she said.

"I’m really pleased for Reece too, as he’s also signed a new contract with Chelsea. It’s always been his dream to stay here as well," added Lauren James.

"It’s not been an easy journey for either of us. It’s taken a lot of hard work and sacrifices for us to get to this point, and we’re very grateful that we are here now, and we are extending our stay."