First training with the Blues as a six-year-old, Reece progressed through our Academy and has become a figurehead in our first-team squad.

He has made more than 200 Chelsea appearances, lifted five major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League in 2021 and the FIFA Club World Cup twice, and has captained the Blues on more than 50 occasions.

Reece said: ‘I am over the moon to have extended my contract - Chelsea means so much to me.

‘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.’

Sporting Directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart said: ‘On behalf of ownership and everyone connected to Chelsea, it is a proud moment for all of us to have Reece extend his contract.

‘He is the leader of this team, both on and off the pitch. Reece knows what it means to wear this badge and, having committed his long-term future to Chelsea, we’re looking forward to continuing the journey and working towards further success together.’

A childhood Chelsea supporter, Reece’s talent was evident from an early age, and he rose through the Academy ranks at Cobham after joining our development centre programme.

He made his Under-18s debut while still a schoolboy in 2015/16 and was a key figure in the side’s Treble-winning season the following year.

In March 2017, Reece signed his first professional contract. He finished the following campaign as our Academy Player of the Season and captain of our Youth Cup-winning side.

After an impressive loan at Wigan Athletic, which saw Reece named the club’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the season, he was integrated into the first-team squad ahead of the 2019/20 campaign.

Reece scored on his Chelsea debut in a League Cup victory over Grimsby Town, netted against Ajax in a memorable Champions League clash, and ended the season having made 37 appearances for the Blues.

Better was to come in his second campaign, as Reece established himself as a first-team regular and earned his first senior England caps. He went on to make 47 Chelsea appearances and lifted the Champions League trophy after we defeated Manchester City in Porto.

Reece lifted the UEFA Super Cup early in the 2021/22 season, during which the Blues also won the 2021 Club World Cup, and scored six goals in all competitions.

His influence continued to grow and ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, Reece was named men’s team captain. He has gone on to lead the Blues 54 times and proudly lifted the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup trophies last year.

The 26-year-old's undeniable quality has been showcased this season, with Reece playing multiple positions and leading the Blues on and off the pitch.

We are delighted for Reece and look forward to the next chapter in his 20-year Chelsea story.

Congratulations, Reece!