According to Standard Sport, Chelsea have presented a new long-term contract offer to young defender Levi Colwill in an attempt to retain him at the club.
However, Colwill is not in a hurry to sign the new deal. He intends to have a discussion with the newly appointed manager, Mauricio Pochettino, regarding his potential role within the first team before making a decision.
Colwill recognizes the importance of his development and believes that regular game time is necessary to continue his progress.
However, Chelsea faces stiff competition for defensive positions, with players like Benoit Badiashile, Thiago Silva, Wesley Fofana, and Trevoh Chalobah already in the squad.
The young defender is particularly concerned about the presence of Badiashile, as they share similar characteristics. Both players are left-footed defenders with imposing physical attributes.
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Chelsea invested a significant sum, approximately £30 million, to secure Badiashile’s services during the January transfer window, and he made an immediate impact. Unfortunately, Badiashile suffered a long-term injury towards the end of the season, further highlighting the competition for Colwill.
The former Brighton star is eager to have a conversation with Pochettino before making a decision about his future. While Chelsea are keen on retaining him beyond his current contract, which expires in 2025, Colwill wants to assess his potential role under the new manager.
Brighton & Hove Albion have already made two offers to sign the 20-year-old centre-back permanently.
Colwill had a loan spell with the Seagulls last season, and they attempted to secure his services permanently during the previous summer transfer window. However, Chelsea turned down Brighton’s offers at that time, and they continue to do so now.
In the meantime, Chelsea and Brighton will engage in discussions regarding the potential transfer of midfielder Moises Caicedo. The Ecuadorian midfielder is a priority target for the Blues, and they intend to pursue his signing.
Despite Brighton’s interest in Colwill, Chelsea are expected to reject any potential deal involving the young defender. Both Manchester City and Liverpool are also monitoring the youngster’s progress, but his parent club remains adamant that he is not available for transfer at any price.
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Colwill recognizes the importance of regular playing time, as a strong season could potentially earn him a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the 2024 European Championship.
Currently away with the England U21 team for the European Championship, Colwill intends to have a conversation with his new manager upon his return to discuss and make a decision about his future.
