For two reasons, according to Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly, the team signed defender James Reece to a long-term deal.

Reece received a long-term contract from Chelsea, according to Boehly, because the English international is "an outstanding player and a true Chelsea man."

Reece on Monday agreed to a new six-year contract with Chelsea that would keep him at Stamford Bridge through the year 2028.

Reacting, Boehly told the club’s official website: “We are thrilled to give Reece a new long-term contract at Chelsea."

“He is an outstanding player and a true Chelsea man, and we are all looking forward to watching him continue to flourish at Stamford Bridge.”

This comes just a day before Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League tie with Dinamo Zagreb.

Meanwhile, after signing the new deal, James said, “I am over the moon with my new contract and I’m thankful to the fans, the new ownership and everyone involved in the club.”