According to The Athletic, Chelsea have reached a preliminary agreement with 20-year-old defender Levi Colwill for a new contract.
Colwill is happy with the terms of the offer and is anticipated to sign a six-year deal. The final details are being worked out by the club before the contract is officially confirmed.
The Blues have expressed a strong desire to retain the young centre-back, who is considered one of the most promising talents from their academy.
Talks regarding a contract extension advanced swiftly on Monday. The youngster has been assured of a potential pathway into the first team, and the club has reportedly offered him a contract worth more than £100,000 per week.
Although the deal has not been fully concluded, negotiations are progressing in a positive direction.
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Mauricio Pochettino played a significant role in reassuring Colwill during face-to-face discussions, addressing concerns the centre-back had about his potential lack of involvement in the upcoming season.
Agreement in place between Chelsea and Levi Colwill’s camp over new long term deal after final round of talks in the evening — it will be valid until June 2029 🚨🔵 #CFC
Chelsea always called Colwill not for sale and untouchable — he’s now set to stay on fresh long term deal. pic.twitter.com/0r2uM2QFt4
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 31, 2023
Despite Brighton’s persistent interest, Chelsea remained adamant that the homegrown talent is not available for sale, rejecting two bids that reached £40 million.
Furthermore, the Seagulls attempted to use Chelsea’s interest in midfielder Moises Caicedo as leverage to secure Colwill’s transfer.
The Blues are now facing the prospect of paying the full £100 million asking price for Caicedo, who is their top priority for midfield reinforcement.
Chelsea are also interested in Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to provide competition for Kepa Arrizabalaga. Sanchez has two years remaining on his contract but has fallen out of favour under manager Roberto De Zerbi.
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In addition to their pursuit of Caicedo and Sanchez, the club is about to announce the signings of Monaco defender Axel Disasi and Rennes midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu in the coming days.
