Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has extended his contract with the Premier League club until 2034, committing his future to Stamford Bridge for another year beyond his previous deal.

The 24-year-old England international said he was delighted to sign the improved contract, citing his confidence in the club’s direction and ambitions.

“Chelsea means a lot to me and I think the club is going in the right direction, so I’m delighted to sign and I’m obviously very happy,” Palmer said.

He added that discussions with the club’s owners, sporting directors and manager had given him confidence to commit to the long-term deal.

“Speaking to players as well, everyone has the same ambitions. I feel like we win major trophies here consistently,” he said.

Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2023 and has recorded a combined 91 goals and assists in 138 appearances for the London club.

His new deal comes after a difficult spell last season, when a persistent groin problem affected his performances. He was also controversially omitted from England’s World Cup squad by manager Thomas Tuchel.

Tuchel later said Palmer had “missed too many opportunities” to play for England after withdrawing from the squad for recent Nations League matches.

However, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso defended the forward on Friday, saying Palmer remained committed to England and needed to regain full fitness to deliver his best for club and country.

Palmer has made a strong start to the current season, scoring four goals in seven appearances across all competitions.

His close relationship with England midfielder Morgan Rogers was also said to have played a role in Rogers’ decision to join Chelsea from Aston Villa during the close season.

Palmer’s extension follows long-term contracts for other Chelsea players, including Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto, as the club continues to secure the futures of key members of its squad.

AFP

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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