Chelsea defender Levi Colwill's potential move to Brighton is likely to be on loan and not part of Marc Cucurella's switch to Stamford Bridge, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

Cucurella is on the verge of becoming Thomas Tuchel's third summer signing, with the teenager reportedly heading in the opposite direction as part of the deal, although Phillips doesn't believe that to be the case.

What's the latest news involving Colwill?

According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea are in talks with Brighton over a switch for Cucurella after the Blues hi-jacked Manchester City's move for the Spaniard.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

Following the recent arrival of Kalidou Koulibaly, the Londoners are in pole position to secure another defensive acquisition in the shape of Cucurella after matching the Seagulls' £50m asking price.

The report also adds that Colwill has been discussed as part of the deal, with the 19-year-old valued at £20m.

However, Phillips is confident the defender will only link up with Graham Potter's side on a temporary basis and it'll be part of a separate transfer should he end up signing for Brighton.

What did Phillips say about Colwill?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "I've been told that if he does go, it won't actually be in the same deal, it'll be separate, and it's likely to be a loan deal. If it is permanent, there will be a buyback inserted in there.

"There's nothing else being discussed, so as long as that does happen and that goes through, I think Chelsea fans will be happy on the whole, especially if it's just a loan."

How highly rated is Colwill?

Colwill is yet to make a senior appearance for Chelsea, but he's already made a name for himself.

Despite his lack of first-team action, the Daily Mail believe that up to five Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Leicester, are interested in his services.

The Blues academy graduate caught the eye on loan at Huddersfield last season, where he made 32 appearances to help the Yorkshire outfit reach the Championship play off final.

According to WhoScored, he was their fourth-best player, helped by the fact he was in the top four players for most clearances (4.3), tackles (1.7), interceptions (1.3) and blocks (0.5) per 90 minutes.

Therefore, Chelsea will be hoping he can continue his development out on loan, but they'll surely be reluctant to let him leave permanently and avoid another Fikayo Tomori situation.