Everton backed to sign Chelsea rising star Levi Colwill – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Everton boss Frank Lampard to enjoy success with young stars yet again as links to Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill emerge.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Michael Keane or Yerry Mina could be potential casualties if the 19-year-old centre-back arrives this summer.
According to The Sun (21 May), Lampard is hoping his old side help him out by allowing Colwill to join Everton on a season-long loan next season.
The report claims the Toffees’ scouts have watched the youngster in action for current loan club Huddersfield, who are vying for promotion to the Premier League.
Lampard oversaw the development and breakthrough of England internationals Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori at former clubs Derby and Chelsea.
Whelan claimed Lampard could repeat the trick next season by bringing Colwill to Goodison Park.
“He did really well with youth when he was at Chelsea,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“That transfer embargo was proof that you can put trust in young players to do the job.
“He’s had invaluable experience with Huddersfield this season. Their job still isn’t done.
“He has obviously been watched closely by the scouts at Everton. He may well have been on Lampard’s radar after his time at Chelsea.
“They’ve struggled at the back this season, Everton, and not many come out of this season smelling of roses.
“Michael Keane hasn’t been good enough. Yerry Mina isn’t consistent enough.
“That’s why they’re looking to someone like Colwill to come in and refresh that defence.”
In other news, Football Insider has revealed Everton have offered £120,000-a-week deal to Newcastle target.