Defender seeks clarity over role at Stamford Bridge before committing to new deal
Chelsea have presented Levi Colwill with a new contract offer, but the young defender is seeking assurances about his future role at the club before making a decision. The 20-year-old, who impressed on loan at Brighton last season, is keen to speak with new manager Mauricio Pochettino to clarify where he fits in the team’s plans, especially with his England ambitions on the line.
Although Colwill has a long-term contract on the table, he is not interested in remaining at Stamford Bridge as a backup option, given the club’s strong defensive options. Pochettino, a known admirer of Colwill, holds the key to resolving the impasse, with the manager set to engage in talks with the player soon after beginning his tenure on July 3.
Chelsea’s defence is crowded, with Thiago Silva, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, and Trevoh Chalobah all vying for regular first-team spots. Badiashile, in particular, poses a challenge to Colwill’s aspirations, as they play a similar style of game.
Brighton made a £40 million bid for Colwill earlier in the transfer window, which was swiftly rejected by Chelsea. The two clubs are set to meet soon to discuss a potential deal for Moises Caicedo, Chelsea’s main midfield target, but Colwill will not be included in any swap arrangement.
Other Premier League clubs, including Manchester City and Liverpool, are also reportedly monitoring Colwill’s situation, but Chelsea have firmly stated that the player is not for sale under any circumstances.
Colwill’s prospects of making England’s Euro 2024 squad remain strong if he continues to perform well. He has already caught the eye of Gareth Southgate, having trained with the senior national team during the June internationals, and is excelling with the Under-21s at the European Championship in Georgia. The Young Lions’ next match is against Portugal on Sunday.
