Chelsea Look At Brighton Youngster To Bolster Defensive Options

Chelsea are always on the look out for fresh young talent, but when that talent is English it becomes even more important. Their latest target is believed to be central defender Lewis Dunk of Brighton & Hove Albion.

Dunk, 19, has established himself in the first team at the Amex this season due to injuries to key players, and his performances have not gone unnoticed by some of England’s top clubs.

Arsenal and Fulham have been watching him of late, but it is reported now that Chelsea scouts were at Brighton’s game on Friday evening to cast an eye over the teenager. With Brighton manager Gus Poyet having played for Chelsea the chances are good that they get first refusal should Brighton wish to sell.

Website Metro reports today that bids of around £5million should be enough to secure Dunk’s services and Brighton manager Gus Poyet is aware that the Premier Leagues top clubs are watching one of his most prized assets.

Speaking only last week Poyet said, “Sometimes you cannot keep players forever. We couldn’t do it with Andrew Crofts or Elliott Bennett. They’ll have to pay. I’m not bothered. Everybody’s got a price. Dunky has got his price because of the way he plays. If he goes to play in the Premier League, I can’t control that. I can control him while he’s here, and make sure he does the basics.”

Lewis Dunk sounds like a promising youngster and is certainly one for the future. It will be interesting to see what happens when the transfer window re-opens in January, because Chelsea are also rumoured to be interested in signing Gary Cahill as well.