Going nowhere! Chelsea tie Levi Colwill down to new long-term contract to see off transfer interest from Brighton & Liverpool

Posted Thursday, August 03, 2023 by Goal.com

Levi Colwill has signed a new six-year contract with Chelsea, putting an end to suggestions he could leave for Brighton or Liverpool.

WHAT HAPPENED? The defender has committed to a six-year contract with an option to extend for a further year, the club confirmed on Wednesday, meaning he could be tied to the club until 2030.

WHAT THEY SAID: Colwill confirmed that he was given assurances by head coach Mauricio Pochettino over his role in the team this season as he revealed why he agreed to stay at Stamford Bridge.

"It’s always been an easy decision. As I’ve grown up, all I’ve known is Chelsea," he said. "I’ve spoken with the manager and he’s given me reassurance, that trust I needed. He’s spoken with me not just as a player but a person. It’s made a big difference."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Colwill had two years left on his previous deal, and Brighton were keen to lure him back to the Amex Stadium following his successful loan in 2022-23, while Liverpool were also interested in him. The Seagulls saw a bid rejected and also demanded he be included in any deal for their midfielder Moises Caicedo. However, Colwill published a telling message to Brighton on Tuesday, thanking the team, coach and fans for their support during his spell on loan.

AND WHAT'S MORE: The 20-year-old has caught the eye in pre-season and the imminent arrival of Axel Disasi from Monaco won't affect his situation, as the latter has been signed to cover for the injured Wesley Fofana.

WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA? Unbeaten so far under Pochettino, Chelsea play the final game of their pre-season tour in the USA against Borussia Dortmund in Chicago on Wednesday night.