Liverpool suffer setback in Levi Colwill pursuit after Benoit Badiashile injury news

Liverpool have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Chelsea’s Levi Colwill.

The Reds are coming to an end of a disappointing campaign trophyless and lodged in a Europa League spot.

In turn, Jurgen Klopp has been tipped to oversee a major summer rebuild. The midfield in particular is a position that needs addressing, amid the impending departures of James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Indeed, the Reds have been linked with a score of midfield targets, including Ryan Gravenberch, Mason Mount, Conor Gallagher, Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo.

However, the Merseyside club also reportedly want to add to their back-line, with Levi Colwill said to be among the club’s targets.

Levi Colwill to Liverpool?

Colwill, who has spent the season on loan at high-flying Brighton, has been linked with a Liverpool move.

However, according to the Guardian, Chelsea fear Benoit Badiashile will miss the start of next season after the defender picked up a groin injury in training last week.

Badiashile’s loss could be Colwill’s gain, given it could provide the England youth international a first-team opportunity at Stamford Bridge.

There were initial hopes the 22-year-old Frenchman’s injury was not that serious, but further tests have indicated he could be out for four months. The player could require surgery, which would see him miss the entire pre-season.

If Badiashile is out it would give Colwill’s chances of breaking into the first team a huge boost. The Blues will be more resistant to letting the 20-year-old depart in the off-season, given it could lead to a shortage of cover.

Alternatively, Liverpool are also among a host of clubs that are thought to have registered an interest in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.

The three-cap England international’s performances for Palace have reportedly attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool.

However, Palace will demand at least £50million from any club wishing to secure the 22-year-old’s services, according to the Athletic.