According to Fabrizio Romano, Brighton & Hove Albion is set to make another attempt to sign Levi Colwill this week, despite Chelsea turning down their initial offer of £30 million.
The centre-back was unable to showcase his abilities under Thomas Tuchel due to an injury. Consequently, the 20-year-old was loaned out in August of last year
Colwill has had an outstanding loan spell at Brighton, where he thrived and showcased his abilities as a regular defender.
The young defender has returned to Stamford Bridge, and the club is keen on retaining him for the upcoming season. They are looking to offer Colwill a new contract as they prepare for the tenure of Mauricio Pochettino as manager.
Brighton will insist for Levi Colwill this week after £30m bid rejected. There are more clubs interested. Chelsea's position remains clear: keep the player, offer him new deal. 🔵 #CFC
Blues hope Koulibaly exit can help Colwill to get guarantees on game time and sign new deal. pic.twitter.com/J3DOaxqdKa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2023
Under Roberto De Zerbi, Colwill featured in 17 Premier League matches and left a strong impression, prompting Brighton to make a bid for his services.
Chelsea believes that the departure of Kalidou Koulibaly will create an opportunity for the young player to agree to a new contract and secure playing time for the upcoming campaign.
The Blues aim to balance their payroll by selling unimportant players before June 30, which would help generate funds for their transfer targets in the upcoming season. It is crucial for the club to make lucrative sales to strengthen its financial position.
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Colwill is showing great development and has the potential to become a world-class player. Despite Brighton’s £30 million offer, the West Londoners should not consider selling the young starlet, as his value goes beyond that.
Unless an exceptionally high offer is made, Chelsea views Colwill’s worth based on his future potential, while Brighton may focus more on his present capabilities.
Given the uncertainty surrounding other potential defensive departures in the summer transfer window, it is crucial for Chelsea to keep Colwill as a necessity.
He has the potential to become Chelsea’s own version of Virgil van Dijk. A loan move for Colwill should be considered only if Chelsea secures at least one truly world-class centre-back who remains consistently fit.