Chelsea transfer news: Crystal Palace's £25m Reece James bid rejected as Frank Lampard gives guarantees
The 19-year-old’s future is still in limbo ahead of the new season but Chelsea are intent that the academy graduate stays
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Chelsea have rejected an improved £25m offer from Crystal Palace for Reece James.
The Independent understands that the new offer was submitted earlier this week and was immediately knocked back by Chelsea, who want the 19-year-old full-back to sign a new and improved contract at the club.
Palace have also submitted an alternative proposal of an 18-month loan with a significant upfront fee, however, Chelsea have rejected that approach too and want James to remain at the club this season.
James, who is still recovering from ankle ligament damage, has been given guarantees by Frank Lampard and Jody Morris that he will receive significant first-team minutes but is yet to commit to any new deal.
Chelsea have already rejected approaches from Palace, Brighton, Bournemouth and Newcastle for the England youth international this summer.
The academy graduate, who captained the club’s triumphant youth team that won back-to-back U18s Premier League and FA Youth Cups, signed a new four-year deal with Chelsea last summer before moving on a season-long loan to Wigan, where he started 45 Championship games and earned a spot in the league’s team of the season.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments