CHELSEA may not get to see the best of Levi Colwill.
The talented youngster, 19, has been a revelation on-loan at Huddersfield Town, as The Terriers push for promotion from the Championship.
Chelsea loanee Levi Colwill has become a key player at HuddersfieldCredit: Getty
His form, and current situation with the Blues, has alerted Premier League clubs that he could be available in the summer.
Everton, Leicester City, and Southampton are all keeping tabs on the centre-half, dubbed the ‘next Rio Ferdinand’.
And it could be that Colwill leaves Stamford Bridge and establishes himself as an England international, just like his pal Marc Guehi has done some eight miles away at Crystal Palace.
First team opportunity
Southampton-born, Colwill joined the Blues as an U9 and thrived through Chelsea’s youth set-up.
He turned heads in the U18s, as well the U23s before the club decided that they needed to keep hold of their prized asset.
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In 2021, he signed a four-year deal and was promised a loan deal to get some valuable first team experience with senior pros, who he’d only come up against playing in the EFL Trophy.
Huddersfield gave him that opportunity, installing the 6ft2in defender into their backline.
It’s fair to say, he hasn’t looked back – appearing 27 times and helping the club cement their place in the playoff positions.
Unlike Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori, Colwill will be hopeful of getting his club promoted to the Premier League at the end of the campaign.
His presence from a defensive point of view has stood out, and he’s efficient in the tackle and comfortable in the air.
But where Colwill really stands out is on the deck.
He reads the game beautifully, and like central defenders of the modern era he’s comfortable bringing the ball out.
His performances have led to comparisons to Rio Ferdinand, by none other than Rio’s brother, Anton.
“When I’ve looked at him and watched him, the first thing I saw was his presence, his stature, his build,” he said.
“For someone so young, 19 years old, to have the stature he’s got. He looks like he plays with an older head, which is also a good thing as a centre-back.
“Blessed to be left-footed, there’s not many left-footed centre-backs about.
“The ball at his feet is a major, major asset to his armoury.
“He’s very good on the ball, he’s calm and collected, he’s assertive with his passing, he’s someone that can start attacks.
Bringing the ball out of defence is one of Colwill’s many attributesCredit: PAColwill in action for England’s U21 side last monthCredit: Rex
“When you look at a modern day centre-back he’s got everything to go to the very top.
“The word Rolls-Royce was associated with Rio, and he’s got similar attributes to Rio.”
What’s next?
Colwill’s future is currently in the balance.
Chelsea are reportedly braced for a number of approaches for their wonderkid.
So, it’s a question of how they can fit him in.
Already a crowded position in the squad, some space will be filled up when Andreas Christensen leaves in the summer.
The ageless Thiago Silva doesn’t appear to be slowing down, while Trevoh Chalobah has impressed at times.
While Antonio Rudiger’s contract talks are still up in the air, following a breakdown in discussions.
Chelsea however may be tempted to cash in now.
Whatever he decides, there are plenty of suitors.
His performances at Huddersfield Town have earned Colwill comparisons with Man Utd legend Rio FerdinandCredit: GettyWith his future up in the air, Chelsea would loathe to lose ColwillCredit: Getty
Aware of his ability in Chelsea’s youth teams, Frank Lampard is believed to be interested in bringing him to Goodison Park.
Southampton want to add him to their collection ex-Chelsea youths, having already seen success with Tino Livramento.
If he does decide to leave, Chelsea’s loss will certainly be their gain.
