Barcelona monitor Chelsea defender Levi Colwill as Hansi Flick seeks defensive signing

Barcelona are monitoring Chelsea defender Levi Colwill as they consider a move for a new central defender during the forthcoming winter transfer window.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick confirmed his desire to strengthen at centre-back during the news conference before the match against Alaves.

Mundo Deportivo previously reported a shortlist of potential targets that included Josko Gvardiol, Alessandro Bastoni, Lisandro Martinez and Natan. English media reports, cited by Mundo Deportivo, have now added Colwill to Barcelona’s list of options.

The 23-year-old England defender has established himself as an important player under Xabi Alonso and is currently regarded as a regular in the Chelsea team.

Barcelona are following Colwill’s situation with a view to a possible transfer. However, Chelsea are keen to extend the defender’s contract, which currently runs until 2029.

Interest from clubs such as Barcelona and Liverpool could encourage Colwill to delay making a decision about his future. Chelsea, meanwhile, would reportedly only be prepared to consider offers worth about 80m euros.

Colwill primarily operates as a left-sided central defender and is valued for his ability to help build attacks and distribute the ball. His physical strength also allows him to compete effectively in challenges, while his height is approximately 190 centimetres.

The defender made his first-team breakthrough at Chelsea in the summer of 2023. Since then, he has made 90 appearances for the London club and has become an important member of the squad.

His departure would therefore be difficult for Chelsea, particularly given Xabi Alonso’s desire to keep him. The manager has praised Colwill’s qualities, saying: “Because of his calmness and strong presence, and because he is a complete and dominant player, he will be a key player for us.”