Levi Colwill is definitely staying at Chelsea, having officially now signed a new long-term contract at the club.

The centre-back, 20, has put pen to paper on a fresh and improved six-year deal in west London that runs until the summer of 2029 and includes the option for a further 12 months beyond that.

Wednesday’s announcement definitively ends any remaining uncertainty over Colwill’s Chelsea future, with Brighton having pursued a permanent deal for the defender this summer after he shone during a season-long loan at the Amex Stadium last season.

Brighton saw two bids totalling up to £40million rejected for the England Under-21 international, a key part of the Young Lions side who won the European Championship title this summer, as they tried to leverage Chelsea’s interest in signing Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo.

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However, the Blues always wanted to keep their popular academy graduate, who has been at the club since joining their Under-9s team, agreeing a contract in principle earlier this week that has now been signed and sealed.

Upon penning the deal, Colwill spoke glowingly of the impact of new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino and the assurances he has received over an important role to play at Chelsea this season.

“It’s always been an easy decision,” Colwill told the club’s official website. “As I’ve grown up, all I’ve known is Chelsea. I’ve spoken with the manager and he’s given me reassurance, that trust I needed. He’s spoken with me not just as a player but a person. It’s made a big difference.

“He pushes us hard, makes sure we do run, but also makes sure we do everything correctly and professional. That is the standards we need at Chelsea, as one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

Chelsea’s co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: “Levi is an outstanding player who has risen to every challenge in his career so far. We are thrilled he will remain at Chelsea for years to come.

“His journey from academy to first team is testament to his talent, dedication, and determination. Everyone at the club is now looking forward to watching him thrive at Stamford Bridge in the seasons ahead.”