Chelsea star signs initial six-year contract extension ahead of imminent Premier League transfer

Lewis Hall has penned a new long-term contract at Chelsea ahead of joining Crystal Palace on loan for the 2023/24 season.

The 18-year-old, who broke into the Chelsea first-team last season with a string of impressive performances, will spend the season on loan at Crystal Palace following a decision made by the club.

As reported by Nizaar Kinsella of the Evening Standard, Hall has signed an initial six-year contract until June 2029, with the option of a further 12 months.

Hall was competing with Ben Chilwell, Marc Cucurella and Ian Maatsen for the recognised left-back position, with Chelsea reportedly open for Hall to remain in west London, however a loan move has been preferred.

It’s claimed Chelsea have struggled to offload Cucurella after just one season and a move to Crystal Palace will offer Hall more regular minutes in the Premier League.

Nizaar Kinsella reports that ‘Hall is not expected to be registered in time to make his debut on Saturday away at Sheffield United’ for the opening game of the 2023/24 campaign.

Amid interest from Newcastle United, it’s also suggested that Roy Hodgson’s friendship with new Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino was a major factor in the Eagles winning the race for the teenager.

Pochettino was quizzed last month during their pre-season tour regarding the left-back situation, admitting: “It is a place where there is cover, Lewis Hall can also play there or as a midfielder. We have also Marc and Ben Chilwell.

“Yes we have cover in the position but there is nothing guaranteed. Ian and Lewis younger and Marc and Chilly are experienced players.

“We will see what happens. The competition is good for the team and can increase the performance.”

All that is left to do is for Chelsea to officially announce Hall’s contract extension and confirm his loan move to Crystal Palace.