Manager thinks Chelsea are bluffing with stance on ‘fantastic’ player, now set to make £38m bid

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Roberto De Zerbi does not believe Chelsea’s stance on Levi Colwill and is preparing a new bid to sign the defender.

That is according to Tutto Mercato Web in Italy.

So, what is the latest on Levi Colwill and Chelsea? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well – according to Sky Sports – Brighton already made a £30m bid.

Chelsea swiftly rejected that offer as the Blues are determined to keep the England Under-21 international at Stamford Bridge, issuing a firm hands-off warning to the Seagulls.

Mauricio Pochettino is believed to be a huge fan of Colwill, with The Times even stating that the Argentine wants Chelsea to offer the 20-year-old a new contract to recognise his importance to the Blues.

The noises coming out of Chelsea right now are that the centre-back is 100% not for sale.

However – as Tutto Mercato Web now report – De Zerbi does not believe Chelsea are telling the truth, and feels a deal for Colwill is still possible.

The Italian news outlet add that Brighton are now preparing a club-record €45m (£38m) bid as the Seagulls look to test Chelsea’s resolve once again.

Chelsea cannot get tough with Brighton over Colwill

This is a very delicate transfer saga for Chelsea, as the Blues need to keep Brighton onside.

Pochettino is keen for Todd Boehly to bring Moises Caicedo to Stamford Bridge, with Fabrizio Romano stating that Chelsea are planning to make a big move for the Brighton No.25 soon.

In our view, Brighton will insist on Colwill – who De Zerbi called “fantastic” – being involved in the deal somehow, whether it is another loan or a permanent deal.

If Chelsea refuse, we can see the Blues being forced to spend way over the odds to sign the Ecuador international.

Therefore, Chelsea must bring their A-game to the negotiating table, as this is a delicate situation.

Be sure to keep an eye on the Colwill saga, as anything could happen this summer.