The Athletic‘s Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson have issued a massive update on a number of Chelsea’s ongoing transfer plans including their chase of Marc Cucurella, Frenkie de Jong, Denzel Dumfries, and a potential exit for Levi Colwill whom they have dubbed a “hugely promising” defender.
The report on Colwill follows up an initial statement by Fabrizio Romano that the defender could be on his way to Brighton & Hove Albion as part of the negotiations for Machester City target Cucurella.
According to The Athletic, the deal for the 19-year-old is likely to be separate from the Cucurella negotiations. They also indicate that the defender will have a buyback clause, similar to Tammy Abraham, which could see the Englishman return to Stamford Bridge if he fulfils his potential at Roma.
The reasoning for allowing the prospect to leave is that Thomas Tuchel believes his squad needs a left-footed defender who is Premier League ready right now. Tuchel is noted to want defenders and a lot of them.
Chelsea are confident on reaching an agreement with Marc Cucurella, not expected to be an issue. Contract proposal’s being prepared. 🚨🔵 #CFC
Negotiations ongoing with Brighton. Price tag: £50m. Chelsea want to be fast – including Levi Colwill as part of the conversations. pic.twitter.com/wbAouxbZJc
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 1, 2022
This may be the rare transfer where everyone walks away content. Brighton get a hugely promising defender that could contribute to their side, Colwill gets a reasonable chance to fight for a spot in a Premier League side, and Chelsea get to offload a player who isn’t ready yet with the possibility of bringing him back in the future.
In addition, the Seagulls may be more willing to allow their star Spanish left-back to leave if they get a capable defender in return for a fraction of the price. A reported fee of £50 million and the arrival of a top prospect may be enough to sway those negotiations in the Blues’ favour.