Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Levi Colwill could be used as part of a swap deal for Chelsea to sign £50m rated Marc Cucurella.
The Blues are considering launching a bid for the Brighton defender after Manchester City’s efforts appear to have stalled.
The left-back enjoyed a stellar season for the Seagulls last campaign, with him being one of the reasons the club finished as high as they did.
The Blues have been targeting defenders prominently this window, and the need to strengthen on the left could become more obvious if Marcos Alonso is granted his move to Barcelona.
Romano has confirmed however that Chelsea are firmly in the race to sign the Spaniard, although they may have to let one of their most promising stars go to make it happen.
Chelsea in talks to swap Colwill for Cucurella
He tweeted: “Chelsea are pushing to hijack Marc Cucurella deal! Direct talk today with Brighton – Levi Colwill could be part of the negotiation.
“Personal terms negotiation, in the next hours. Man City will not improve last bid: £40m, rejected by Brighton.
“Chelsea will talk today with Brighton to discuss fee and players to be involved, Colwill will be part of conversations.”
The deal would no doubt anger some fans, with the 19-year-old a player who looked set to have a promising future at Stamford Bridge if he was offered regular playing minutes.
Despite this, he has been the subject of much interest from Premier League clubs, with the Seagulls one of those originally mentioned to be interested in a deal.
Injuries may well have limited Colwill’s progression this pre-season, with him being unable to travel to the club’s pair of friendlies against Udinese at the weekend.
Nevertheless, the addition of Cucurella could further enhance Chelsea’s strength in wide areas, with them already excelling there through Reece James and Ben Chilwell.
However, given the left-back’s injury last season, Thomas Tuchel will certainly be keen to add another option to his arsenal for this campaign.