Reece James has revealed that he is keen to stay with Chelsea on a long-term basis amid suggestions that Manchester City are looking to sign the England international.
The 22-year-old has another three years left to run on his contract with the Blues, but it is believed that he is looking for a significant pay rise to reflect his importance to the side.
Man City are believed to be keeping a close eye on the situation surrounding James, with Citizens head coach Pep Guardiola thought to be keen to bring him to the Etihad Stadium.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are also thought to be admirers of the Englishman, with Los Blancos looking to sign a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal.
However, a recent report claimed that Chelsea are preparing to open talks with James over a new long-term deal, with the club aware of the rising interest from elsewhere.
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James has now revealed that he is keen to remain at Stamford Bridge amid the speculation surrounding his future.
'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.
James is thought to be on around £80,000 a week with the Blues, which would make him one of the lowest earners in terms of the first-team players at the club.
The right-back 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.
James 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 the Englishman is confident that his side can again challenge for silverware next term.
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"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," the defender added.
"There's no reason why we can't do that. For sure last season we had a lot 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."
James, who has won the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge, had a successful loan spell at Wigan Athletic in 2018-19 before becoming an important player for Chelsea.
The defender has represented the Blues on 123 occasions in all competitions, contributing nine goals and 18 assists in the process.
Matt Law
