Brighton are set to submit a record offer to sign Levi Colwill from Chelsea after seeing their initial bid turned down by the London side.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Brighton are not giving up on their pursuit of Levi Colwill and are prepared to make a record offer. The 20-year-old defender spent the season on loan with the Seagulls, who have already seen an offer rebuffed by the London side.
Levi Colwill took his time but came through at Brighton after a difficult start to life under Graham Potter. The 20-year-old defender joined the Seagulls on loan, possibly as part of the deal that saw Marc Cuccurela join Chelsea last summer.
He has improved massively under Roberto De Zerbi, who remains keen to sign the 20-year-old defender permanently. Chelsea were smart enough not to include a buy option while sending Colwill on loan, which may play in their favour.
Widespread reports have suggested the Blues could sell several homegrown stars to balance their books after a considerable outlay in the previous windows. A sale of the 20-year-old defender will exponentially improve their finances, but that’s not their plan.
EXCL: Brighton are now preparing a new, record bid for Levi Colwill close to £40m to be submitted soon 🚨🔵 #BHAFC
Chelsea turned down £30m bid last week.
Chelsea always had the same position: Colwill is part of long term project, no intention to sell him. #CFC pic.twitter.com/aIWFRU2h8r
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 6, 2023
Chelsea reportedly views Colwill as a big part of their future and are unwilling to sell amid increased interest. Liverpool were also considering a move, but Brighton are the current favourite if he becomes available. It will depend on the Blues and even the player if he demands a move away.
Brighton have already seen a bid turned down by Chelsea, which was reportedly around the £30 million mark. As per Fabrizio Romano, they are ready to launch a club-record bid to tempt Chelsea and sign Colwill in the summer.
The journalist claimed Brighton could offer £40 million via their new bid and hope for Chelsea to approve. Romano also insisted the Blues view the 20-year-old defender for their long-term future, which may prove difficult for the Seagulls.
Alternatively, Chelsea might consider involving Colwill in their chase of midfielder Moises Caicedo. They are stepping up their efforts for the Ecuadorian, and Brighton’s interest in the 20-year-old defender opens up new doors for a potential deal to materialise.
As things stand, Brighton are keen to land Colwill as they take part in their maiden European adventure. However, Chelsea might stand firm in their stance and even look to offer the 20-year-old defender a new contract if things go in the right direction.
