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Rio Ferdinand names surprise second dream Ten Hag signing as Man Utd given Chelsea transfer task
Rio Ferdinand has encouraged Erik ten Hag to sign Levi Colwill this summer, with Manchester United in the market for a new centre-back. The 20-year-old defender has been heavily linked with an exit from Chelsea this summer following his impressive performances while on loan at Brighton last season.
Colwill, who sees his contract at Stamford Bridge expiring in 2025, featured 17 times for the Seagulls in the Premier League last season, helping Roberto De Zerbi’s side keep five clean sheets. The England Under-21 international helped Brighton claim a Europa League qualification spot ahead of Tottenham and, his parent club, the Blues.
football.london understands that Chelsea have been very impressed with his progress and he’s expected to be a key player under Pochettino – so, therefore, he’s not for sale. However, the west Londoners may find it difficult to hold onto Colwill after De Zerbi publicly revealed his intent to re-sign him.
Speculation of a return to the south coast has died down following the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, but now United have been mooted as a potential destination for the youngster. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand named Colwill as his ‘dream’ signing, with United already deep into negotiations for midfielder Mason Mount.
The former Red Devils defender said: “If I could get him, my dream one would be [Levi] Colwill, on-loan at Brighton from Chelsea. But I think Chelsea are going to keep him. I think they’ve seen how good he is now.”
Following the omission of Lewis Dunk from the England squad due to injury, Colwill was called up to the Three Lions senior squad for training last week. The Chelsea ace travelled with Gareth Southgate’s side for the UEFA Euro qualifier against Malta, though he didn’t feature in the matchday squad.
Lee Carsley believes that the experience will do Colwill plenty of favours as the England Under-21s prepare for the Euros this month. The Three Lions Under-21 manager said: “He had a good experience with the senior team.
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“He was tired when he got here. The journey is tough. He had a recovery session but has trained well ever since so he’s in a good position. I expect him and Taylor [Harwood-Bellis], along with the other centre halves, to have a good competition.
“What I’ve noticed about Levi, and the others, is that they’re motivated and committed to being here. And not just being here but doing well. Hopefully we can get off to a good start.”
