Chelsea are reportedly hoping that face-to-face talks between Levi Colwill and manager Mauricio Pochettino will persuade the defender to stay at Stamford Bridge, amid interest from Liverpool and Manchester City. The 20-year-old has been a target for Brighton, who had a £40 million bid rejected earlier this summer, and Liverpool are also keen on hijacking the deal.
Colwill, who spent last season on loan at Brighton, impressed in the latter part of the campaign, playing 10 of the final 14 Premier League matches. He has two years left on his current Chelsea contract, and the club has offered him a new long-term deal to fend off suitors.
According to the Evening Standard, Colwill wants clarity from Pochettino over his squad role when he returns from the U21 European Championship. The Argentine is said to hold the key to keeping Colwill happy, but the youngster is seeking regular first-team football ahead of Euro 2024, not a backup role.
Colwill's pathway at Chelsea may be blocked by several centre-backs, including Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Thiago Silva, and Trevoh Chalobah, all vying for starting spots. Pochettino's formation—whether a back three or back four—will determine how many defenders play regularly.
Brighton are expected to meet Chelsea next week to discuss a separate transfer for midfielder Moises Caicedo, but any request to include Colwill in a swap deal will be rebuffed. Chelsea are determined to keep their academy graduate, who has also been linked with Manchester City.
