Chelsea youngster Alfie Gilchrist penned a new contract at Stamford Bridge this week, but he may not be the only Blues player in line for a fresh deal.
Chelsea confirmed via their official website yesterday that Alfie Gilchrist, 20, has signed a new contract that runs until 2026.
The academy graduate has forced his way into the first-team building this season under Mauricio Pochettino, playing 12 senior games so far. Speaking via The Evening Standard in January, Pochettino explained that Gilchrist really epitomises what it means to play for Chelsea.
He’s now been rewarded by the club with an extension to his deal.
Chelsea player could follow Alfie Gilchrist
Apparently, Chelsea’s talisman Cole Palmer may be the next individual in the squad to receive a new contract.
The 21-year-old attacker has been the club’s best player since joining from Manchester City last summer, so he belongs at the front of the queue if any improved deals are flying about.
According to a report from The Telegraph yesterday evening, Palmer is expected to be rewarded for his magnificent debut season in Chelsea colours with an improved contract that will include a lucrative pay rise.
It is understood that there’s been no discussions yet and nothing is imminent, but there’s acknowledgement within the club that the playmaker is deserving of a big increase on his current £80,000-a-week deal.
The report explains there’s no need to rush while Palmer focuses on trying to lift his side in the final two months of the campaign.
Cole Palmer should be top earner
From what we’ve seen at Chelsea this year, Palmer’s been miles clear of his teammates in terms of quality and consistency.
The English youngster is acting like a senior figure on the pitch and carrying a lot of expectation on his shoulders, so that should be reflected in his salary.
It’s obvious to us he’s quickly earned the trust of his teammates on and off the pitch. For example, speaking via BBC Sport last month, Blues star Carney Chukwuemeka described Palmer as someone with an “amazing IQ”.
Below are some statistics from FotMob that highlight Palmer’s influence at Stamford Bridge this season in the Premier League:
Most Chelsea Goals:
- Cole Palmer – 13
- Nicolas Jackson – 9
- Raheem Sterling – 6
Most Chelsea Assists
- Cole Palmer – 8
- Conor Gallagher – 5
- Malo Gusto – 5
Most Chelsea Chances Created
- Cole Palmer – 42
- Conor Gallagher – 41
- Enzo Fernandez – 27