Lauren James extends Chelsea contract till 2027

Lauren James has signed a new contract at Chelsea, which keeps her at the club until 2027.

The 21-year-old forward was recently named in Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for this summer’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand – the first time she will compete for the Lionesses at a major tournament.

James was also a winner at the inaugural Women’s Football Awards last week, picking up the Young Player of the Year prize.

“It’s an amazing feeling to extend my stay at the club I love and where I feel most at home,” James told chelseafc.com. “I’m looking forward to the future and I want to reach my full potential.

READ ALSO Mourinho throws Roma future into doubt after loss in Europa League

“I want to be the best version of me as a player and as a person, helping to inspire the next generation. It definitely feels like home and it’s always been the place I’ve wanted to be.

Schooled in Chelsea’s academy, James made her senior debut for Arsenal as a 16-year-old and signed her first professional deal with Manchester United before returning to the Blues on a four-year contract in July 2021

Chelsea are close to confirming the signing of USA forward Catarina Macario. The 23-year old will join when her contract with Lyon expires at the end of the month.