Chelsea tie down highly-rated Colwill with new six-year deal

Levi Colwill admits it was an easy decision to sign a new contract with Chelsea. 

The centre-back, 20, has been handed a six-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months, after impressing boss Mauricio Pochettino during pre-season. 

Having won the European Under-21 Championship with England this summer, Colwill has only started one of the four games the Londoners have played so far on their tour of the United States. 

But Pochettino has seen enough to know the talented ace has what it takes to make it at the highest level. 

And Colwill was delighted to sign up for more with his boyhood club. He said: "It's always been an easy decision. 

"As I've grown up, all I've known is Chelsea. 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."

Colwill, who progressed through Chelsea's academy at Cobham, impressed during a loan spell with Brighton last season and the Seagulls were reportedly keen to snap him up on a permanent basis. 

But despite a summer clearout, the Blues had no intention of letting go of their latest rising star.

Co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: "Levi is an outstanding player who has risen to every challenge in his career so far. 

"We are thrilled he will remain at Chelsea for years to come. 

"His journey from academy to first team is testament to his talent, dedication and determination. 

"Everyone at the club is now looking forward to watching him thrive at Stamford Bridge in the seasons ahead."