In Focus: Levi is right fit for Chelsea and England

Levi Colwill looks set to compete for a place at Chelsea under new manager Mauricio Pochettino. 

The centre-back enjoyed a successful loan spell at Brighton last season, helping the Seagulls qualify for Europe. 

A number of Premier League clubs are now keen to sign the 20-year-old, but Pochettino is reported to be a big fan of the youngster. 

With Colwill likely to remain at Stamford Bridge, we take a closer look at the defender and what we can expect from him next season. 

Pathway cleared

Colwill's Premier League breakthrough with Brighton followed a loan season in the Championship with Huddersfield in 2021-22. 

Having made his first top-flight start in November, the Chelsea academy graduate was a regular in Roberto De Zerbi's team. 

The Seagulls were keen to keep the English starlet and made a £30million bid at the start of June. 

Stamford Bridge chiefs rejected the offer and everything points to them giving Colwill the opportunity to now establish himself in West London.

The Blues are expected to play with a back four next season, having often used three centre-backs in 2022-23. 

With Kalidou Koulibaly sold to Al-Hilal, Chelsea are left with five specialist central defenders. 

Colwill will fight it out with Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana and Thiago Silva for a starting spot. 

Passing talent

Of those five centre-backs, Colwill is one of two left-footed defenders, along with Badiashile. 

With a clear pathway carved out for the England Under-21s international, it is up to him to make the most of the opportunity. 

During his time at Brighton last season, Colwill proved that he can operate at the highest level for a team that like to play out from the back. 

Composed in possession, the Southampton-born ace is blessed with a real talent for passing. 

Combined with his ability to move with the ball into midfield, Colwill fits the mould of the type of centre-back that Pochettino likes to work with. 

Defensively, he possesses the pace to play in a back four that pushes high up the pitch, which is another preference of the new manager. 

England ambitions

Should Colwill become a regular starter for Chelsea, there could be a big reward waiting for him at international level. 

An injury to his former Brighton team-mate Lewis Dunk saw the left-sided central defender being called up to the full England squad for the recent Euro 2024 qualifiers.

Colwill is now on duty at the European Under-21 Championship, with Lee Carsley's side eying continental glory.

Speaking about his ambitions for this summer, he said: "I really enjoyed training with the seniors. I learned so much but I always had this tournament in the back of my mind. 

"It's such a big thing for me because I haven't won a trophy in my professional career yet. This would be the best way to start, and hopefully do well." 

Should Colwill shine at the tournament, it would be further evidence of his suitability for both Pochettino and Gareth Southgate's plans. 

It might not only be a place in the Chelsea team that is up for grabs next season but also a spot in the Three Lions squad for Euro 2024.