Chelsea are looking to intensify contract talks for Mason Mount after Reece James’ extension was sealed

Chelsea are reportedly keen to step up contract talks with midfielder Mason Mount after confirming academy colleague Reece James has signed a new contract running until 2028.

The defender has been linked with a move from the club with La Liga giants Real Madrid, who are believed to be keen for a nosedive for him, but the Blues can rest easy knowing his new contract will be valid five years, including an option for a further year until 2028.

They are now looking to tie Mount and it has been reported that the 22-year-old’s new contract will put him level with the club’s top earners, according to The Telegraph.

Mason Mount could be in line for a new bumper deal to bring him in line with top earners

The club’s new owner has made it clear that sorting out the future of Cobham’s own James and Mount was among their priorities and they are halfway to achieving that goal as the right-back has signed his extension.

Owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali hope to reward high-performing players and match them with the club’s top earners.

Mount is the next player whose long-term future they want to secure and talks have already been held with his representatives in hopes of reaching an agreement, according to the report. There were also preliminary talks about a contract extension for goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

Blues co-owner Todd Boehly wants to reward high-performing players with new contracts

Both Mount and Mendy’s current Chelsea contracts have two years left before they expire.

On James’ contract, Boehly said: “We are delighted to give Reece a new long-term deal at Chelsea.

“He’s an outstanding player and a real Chelsea man and we’re all looking forward to seeing him continue to flourish at Stamford Bridge.”

Reece James (left) has already signed a new contract with Chelsea that runs until 2028

James said: “I’m absolutely delighted with my new contract and I’m grateful for the fans, the new owner and everyone involved at the club.

“I can’t wait to see what the future holds and I am sure we will have a chance to win many trophies.

“I grew up supporting this club and I’ve been here since I was six years old. I put a new deal on paper because this is the club I want to be with.

“I want to say a special thank you to the fans, I’m here to stay and we have a bright future ahead of us.”