The centre-back, who is captain of our Under-21s, has agreed a deal until 2025, with the club holding an option for a further year. 

Gilchrist, a boyhood Chelsea supporter, joined our Academy as an Under-11 and progressed through the youth ranks at Cobham. 

He established himself as a regular for our Under-18s during the 2020/21 season, which ended with Gilchrist being named Scholar of the Year and having signed a professional contract.

The following campaign, Gilchrist captained the Under-18s to a Premier League Cup triumph and the FA Youth Cup semi-final. He also made ten appearances for our Under-21s.

Gilchrist became a regular for the Under-21s last season under Mark Robinson – and took on the captaincy midway through the campaign after Bashir Humphreys departed on loan. 

His form was rewarded with a place on the substitutes’ bench under Frank Lampard for the men’s side's away trip to Manchester United in the Premier League in May. 

Further recognition came for Gilchrist this summer as he was included in the 29-man squad for our pre-season tour of the United States. The 19-year-old featured in our friendlies against Wrexham and Fulham. 

Gilchrist has continued to captain the Under-21s this season under Robinson and was also among the substitutes for our goalless draw against Bournemouth on Sunday. 

Congratulations, Alfie!