Manchester United’s iconic player Rio Ferdinand lauded Chelsea’s Levi Colwill for his noteworthy performance this season, claiming that he surpasses Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile in terms of talent.
Ferdinand pointed out that it was unlikely Erik ten Hag’s side could sign the rising star. Colwill, currently on loan with Brighton, has attracted praise for his instrumental role in the recent 3-0 victory against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Before loaning Colwill last summer, Chelsea added Fofana, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Badiashile to their roster within the past year. The 20-year-old, highly regarded by peers and critics alike, has contributed significantly to Brighton’s impressive defense, resulting in five clean sheets in 21 games this season. His return to Stamford Bridge is slated for the upcoming summer.
Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino has publicly expressed enthusiasm about working with Colwill, with plans to rebuild the team around him, Badiashile, Reece James, Ben Chilwell, and N’Golo Kante. Following Colwill’s exceptional performance in Brighton, Chelsea is optimistic about retaining the young player despite interest from rival teams Manchester City and Liverpool.
Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi, who has cherished the opportunity to work with Colwill this season, is keen to extend their professional relationship, either through another loan or a permanent contract. Reflecting on the player’s growth and potential, De Zerbi expressed: “It’s challenging to find another centre-back, particularly a left centre-back, with his quality. He’s a good guy, and he’s improving considerably. His progress this year has been remarkable. I hope he can stay with us.”
Amid rumors of Ten Hag’s search for a new centre-back, Ferdinand dismissed the possibility of Manchester United snatching Colwill from Chelsea. He told FIVE: “We [United] ain’t getting him, he’s at Chelsea – they aren’t going to sell him. I believe he is the finest they have at Chelsea. He’s superior to Fofana and Badiashile. Have you seen his performance for Brighton? His team ranks higher than Chelsea. He’s been phenomenal.”
Colwill, however, has refrained from discussing his future with Chelsea, choosing instead to concentrate on his current commitment to Brighton and their European prospects. “I haven’t thought about it, to be honest, every day I am working hard and that’s all I am focusing on,” he said following Brighton’s 1-0 triumph over Crystal Palace.
“This is my main priority right now, to work hard with my teammates. I have relished every moment here. I have learned so much, and now that I’m getting more playing time after recovering from an injury, I couldn’t ask for more.”
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