Chelsea midfielder Alfie Gilchrist has agreed a new two-year contract with the club.
The 20-year-old has committed his long-term future to Chelsea with a deal that is expected to run until 2026 with the option of a further year.
He said: “Signing this contract at Chelsea is a massive achievement for me and my family.
“It was a no-brainer and every time I’ve signed a contract here it has felt nicer and nicer. But now I want to keep on pushing on and keep improving.”
Co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley added: “We are delighted to give Alfie this new contract at Chelsea.
“It has been a pleasure to see him continue his development within the club by breaking into the first-team squad this season. We are looking forward to seeing him progress further in the years to come.”
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Gilchrist, who debuted under head coach Mauricio Pochettino in December, has amassed 12 first-team appearances, including a recent substitute appearance against Burnley.
Although he has operated in central midfield, Gilchrist can also play at right-back and centre-back.
He joined Chelsea’s youth set-up in 2014 and signed his first professional contract in 2020.
Gilchrist captained the academy team to the FA Youth Cup semi-finals and clinched the Under-18 Premier League Cup in the 2021–22 season.
Gilchrist previously signed a new two-year deal with Chelsea in September 2023.
Chelsea are next in action this Thursday at home to Manchester United in the Premier League.
Is this a big deal for Chelsea?
Analysis by Chelsea reporter Simon Johnson
First of all this is a great reward for Gilchrist, who has made 12 appearances since his debut against Crystal Palace on December 27.
He joined the club at the under-11 stage, progressing through the ranks. He has been captain of all the academy age groups from under-15s to under-21s. It was his leadership qualities, attitude and defensive nous which also convinced Pochettino to give him a chance and he has taken it.
Chelsea fans already sing his name, chanting proudly how ‘he is one of our own’. The fact he is a supporter of the club like them has increased his popularity.
Obviously there is still lots to prove and improve on. But Gilchrist’s emergence and Chelsea’s decision to extend his deal also provides encouragement for other youngsters, giving them belief that there is still a pathway into the senior squad.
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