CBS reporter Ben Jacobs has confirmed that Southampton are interested in a move for Chelsea defender Levi Colwill this summer.

The Lowdown: Searching for a breakthrough

The 19-year-old is an academy product of the Blues, having worked his way up through the ranks at Stamford Bridge, but has never been able to make a successful breakthrough into Thomas Tuchel’s first-team squad.

The centre-back spent last season out on loan at Huddersfield Town to aid his development further, and after an impressive spell at The John Smith’s Stadium, could now be on his way to the Premier League after catching the eye of potential suitors, in particular the Saints.

The Latest: Saints tracking Colwill

Taking to Twitter, Jacobs revealed that Southampton are monitoring Colwill, though he’s only currently open to a loan move. He wrote:

“My understanding with Levi Colwill is there is no shortage of interest. Southampton and Leicester both rate the 19-year-old. Colwill has not asked for a permanent move. He seeks clarity, though, of his long-term role and future at Chelsea. It's similar to Armando Broja.”

The Verdict: Existing Chelsea connection

Southampton already have a history of signing exciting young talents from Chelsea having purchased Tino Livramento and brought in Armando Broja on loan last summer, so this existing connection between the two clubs could give the south coast side the advantage.

The 6 foot 1 gem was solid at the heart of the Terriers’ backline last season, averaging 4.3 clearances and 1.7 tackles per league game, along with 2.9 aerial wins, via WhoScored.

Even if it’s only on a temporary basis, the Chelsea starlet would be a fantastic addition to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s starting XI for the season ahead as the Austrian looks to guide his team towards a place in the top ten.