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Josh Acheampong, an 18-year-old player, made a surprising debut in the Premier League for Chelsea in a match against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge. Acheampong, who had previously been seen playing as a right-back, was included in the line-up due to injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile. He started the game alongside Levi Colwill….
Albion wanted Colwill as their priority target in defence after an exceptional season on loan from Chelsea.
Colwill became pivotal at left centre back as Albion secured Europa League for the first time ever.
There were question marks over whether the England under 21 international would stay at Chelsea this season, with Albion guaranteeing him game time and European football if he were to return.
Colwill after the 3-0 win against Arsenal (Image: PA)
But Colwill, 20, has now agreed a new six-year contract with Mauricio Pochettino’s side and looks set to be one of their starting defenders.
He was one of Albion’s priority targets this summer but Pochettino insisted he would get the game time he wanted at Chelsea.
Colwill posted on his Instagram this evening a message to Brighton.
He said: “To Brighton and Hove Albion.
“I am proud to have played a small part in the clubs success last season.
“You gave me an opportunity to play in the Premier League when no one else did. I thank Graham Potter for first bringing me to the club and to all the employees at the stadium and training ground for making it a great place to perform and develop
“To the fans, you’ve always had my back. Since I got into the side, your continuous support made me feel comfortable to play the way I wanted to play and not fear about making mistakes.
“You gave me a platform to shine and show my ability in the best league of the world. I will never forget that you supported me.
“Lastly Roberto De Zerbi, you challenged me every day. You made me think and see football in a different way. I cannot thank you enough.
“Thank you again. LC.”
Despite only making 17 Premier League appearances, Colwill became one of the first names on the team sheet in the second half of the season.
Chelsea turned down a £30 million bid for Colwill from Albion and it was reported that De Zerbi’s side were set to bid £40 million for him.
Albion signed Brazilian defender Igor Julio from Serie A side Fiorentina last Wednesday as an alternative option.
The 25-year-old Brazilian signed on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee which is believed to be in the region of £14 million.
Chelsea have made a decision on the future of Trevoh Chalobah as Mauricio Pochettino faces a fight to keep hold of Levi Colwill at Stamford Bridge. The Blues currently have no interest in a sale for the 20-year-old, but teams are following in case that changes. Colwill has stated he must be playing regular football…
