Boehly is central to James talks

CHELSEA co-owner Todd Boehly has personally intervened to ease doubts over Reece James’s future.

Sportsmail highlighted earlier this month that the club were yet to approach the England international about extending his contract, despite him becoming one of the club’s most important players. However, it is understood that Boehly has made James’s contract situation a priority. Formal discussions are yet to begin, but the club have made clear their intention to offer the 22-year-old an improved deal, potentially once the transfer window closes at the end of August. However, there are no guarantees that negotiations will be swift, and Manchester City and Real Madrid both view him as a long-term target. James is tied to Chelsea for another three years but has become a key player in Thomas Tuchel’s side since signing his current contract two-and-a-half years ago. The versatile rightfooter earns about £70,000 a week but can expect an offer that would make him one of the club’s highest earners. Boehly has taken a hands-on approach towards the club’s footballing operations since the £4.25billion takeover from Roman Abramovich was concluded last month.

The US tycoon has taken on the role of interim sporting director after the club confirmed the departure of influential director Marina Granovskaia, who controlled transfer and contract negotiations during the Abramovich era.