Chelsea Football Club has been signed up by one of the world's leading literary agents in a new global publishing deal.

The Christopher Little Literary Agency, who act for a number of exciting authors including JK Rowling, the creator of Harry Potter, will represent Chelsea in all book deals in the United Kingdom and around the world.

It is the first time Chelsea has been represented by a literary agent and the partnership will be looking to expand the portfolio of books produced by the club.

Chelsea communications and public affairs director, Simon Greenberg, said: 'Christopher Little are the ideal partners for Chelsea in this sector. They are known throughout the publishing world for the writers they represent and for their knowledge of the industry.

'We have already discussed some great ideas and we are sure together we will take Chelsea's publishing to a higher and more successful level.'

Neil Blair, partner at Christopher Little, said: 'We are delighted to be working with Chelsea and helping to create an exciting new range of books, both here and abroad.'

Blair, together with founding partner Christopher Little, helps to run the agency which is based in south west London.

It employs a motivated team of specialists who offer a dedicated and highly personal service with expertise in all areas of publishing, media, film and television, merchandising, royalties and accounting.

The Christopher Little Literary Agency's diverse client list includes not only JK Rowling but also bestselling authors Darren Shan and Cathy Hopkins, as well as Sir Mike Jackson and the Gorillaz.

It deals directly with more than 175 publishers in over 200 territories around the world, with books published in over 65 languages.