Chelsea hit gold on academy star who’s already worth more than Calafiori

Chelsea’s Transfer Targets and Levi Colwill’s Rising Stock

As the transfer window intensifies, Chelsea is eyeing reinforcements in several key positions. Manager Enzo Maresca aims for a Champions League finish after the Blues’ sixth-place Premier League finish last season. Recent reports suggest Chelsea is targeting a left-footed defender, a striker, and a winger, following the signings of Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, and Omari Kellyman.

Chelsea’s Interest in Ricardo Calafiori

One player who fits Chelsea’s profile is Bologna’s Ricardo Calafiori. According to Fabrizio Romano, the versatile Bologna defender had an impressive season under Thiago Motta in Serie A, making 33 appearances, scoring two goals, providing five assists, and contributing to 16 clean sheets. Calafiori’s ability to step into midfield, invert from full-back, or play as a centre-back or left-back makes him a unique asset, similar to Manchester City’s John Stones.

Levi Colwill: Chelsea’s Homegrown Talent

However, Chelsea might already have a comparable talent in Levi Colwill. The 21-year-old has been with Chelsea since the U9 level and signed his first professional contract in 2020. Colwill has been highly rated within the club and has represented England at various youth levels. He spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Huddersfield Town, making 32 appearances and contributing to 14 clean sheets. Colwill’s performances helped Huddersfield reach the Championship play-off final.

The following season, Colwill joined Brighton on loan, where he flourished under Roberto De Zerbi. Despite not being a starter initially, he showcased his passing range, composure on the ball, and defensive awareness, which are crucial for a possession-based team. Colwill’s development at Brighton convinced Chelsea to retain him for the 2023/24 season. He made 32 appearances, scored one goal, provided one assist, and contributed to eight clean sheets, including multiple games as a left-back.

Colwill’s Transfer Valuation

Chelsea is reportedly interested in Calafiori, who could cost around £40 million. However, Colwill’s market value is significantly higher. According to Transfermarkt, Colwill is valued at €50 million (approximately £42 million). Nonetheless, The Athletic suggests that Chelsea could demand closer to £100 million for Colwill, given his left-sided, ball-playing centre-back profile and interest from clubs like Liverpool and Brighton.

Comparing Calafiori and Colwill

Statistically, Colwill ranks in the top 15% for progressive carries per 90 minutes among European centre-backs, and in the top 6% for tackles made (2.4 per 90). Calafiori averages 1.07 progressive carries per 90 (top 19%) and 1.8 tackles per 90 (top 26%). Both players exhibit defensive prowess and technical quality, with Calafiori being slightly more aggressive and Colwill more selective with his tackles. Their ability to combine defensive actions with creative contributions in the final third makes them rare profiles.

Conclusion

While Calafiori is an attractive target, Chelsea already possesses a similarly talented defender in Colwill. His value, versatility, and development within the club make him a crucial asset. As Chelsea navigates the transfer window, Maresca must decide whether to invest in new talent or further develop the promising players already in their ranks.