Chelsea academy graduate Levi Colwill has ended speculation about his future by signing a new six-year contract with the Blues, with an option for a further year.
The 20-year-old centre-back enjoyed a highly successful loan spell last season with Brighton & Hove Albion, who were reportedly keen to sign him on a permanent basis, and he was then part of the England squad that won the UEFA European Under-21 Championship this summer.
Colwill is now looking forward to working under Mauricio Pochettino, who built a reputation at Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur for developing the talents of young players.
"I have spoken to the gaffer, and he has given me assurances, and given me that trust that I needed," Colwill told the club's official website. "Just with simple things like talking to me, making me feel like not just a player but also a person, it has made a big difference.
"He pushes us hard, makes sure we do run, but also makes sure we do everything correctly and professional. That is the standards we need at Chelsea, as one of the biggest clubs in the world.
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"I remember being in the old dome [at Cobham]. Coming in as a trialist, I was really nervous at the time. I went into training, really enjoying it, and then I had a six-week trial. On my ninth birthday, that’s when I got offered the contract, and I signed it there and then.
"I never thought I could become what I have today, through all the hard work. There is no better feeling. So it has always been an easy decision. I have grown up, and all I have known is Chelsea."
Colwill's senior career so far
Colwill spent the 2021/22 season on loan with Huddersfield Town, helping them reach the Championship playoff final.
While the Terriers missed out on promotion, Colwill stepped up to the Premier League last season and played 17 top-flight matches for Brighton, helping the Seagulls finish sixth to qualify for this season’s UEFA Europa League.
This summer he has been part of the Chelsea squad that won the inaugural Premier League Summer Series in the United States.