Chelsea Football Club, runners-up in last season’s English Premier League, have signed a new four-year sponsorship deal with holiday company, Thomas Cook.

The deal - an extension of the original agreement, signed in 2006, which made Thomas Cook the club’s official travel partner - is reportedly worth US$2.2 million per year.

"Re-signing with Chelsea takes our relationship to a whole new level,” said Manny Fontenla-Novoa, chief executive of Thomas Cook.

"We've enjoyed a fantastic partnership with the club so far, and this announcement will ensure that we provide an unrivalled service to the club and its supporters for years to come."

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon said: “I think this deal demonstrates a major vote of confidence from the business world in the strength of Chelsea as a sponsorship partner, as well as Premier League football in general, in what is a difficult economic climate.”

He added: “Extending our association with Thomas Cook, one of the most respected brands in travel, is a natural one for Chelsea. 

"We're sure that this deal will lead to a more complete service for the club and its supporters.”