Liverpool are determined to sign Chelsea defender Levi Colwill

Liverpool are confident of signing Chelsea defender Levi Colwill, despite the Blues' insistence that he is not for sale.

Colwill, who was one of the stars of England's European Under-21 Championship success this summer, impressed hugely on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion last season. The Seagulls have already failed with a couple of bids to land him on a permanent basis.

Chelsea have stated since January that they are not looking to sell the defender, but Colwill is reportedly far from convinced that his long-term future should be at Chelsea.

"I need to get a feel for him," said Mauricio Pochettino.

"I need to hear what he has in his mind. What he expects. And then, of course, for him to listen to what I expect from him."

Colwill's current deal is due to expire in 2025 and Chelsea are looking to extend it, but as it stands talks have not advanced.

Chelsea have made it clear to their squad that players unwilling to sign new deals will be sold, highlighted by the departures of Mason Mount and Mateo Kovacic this summer.

Liverpool are confident that they can lure Colwill away from Stamford Bridge, and they are ready to make an offer for the defender.

The Reds have been focusing on overhauling their midfield this summer and with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai already signed, they are now also looking at defensive options and a new centre-half is in their sights.

"I'll speak to my family, speak to everyone I need to and make a decision," said Colwill. "I've got to play at the end of the day to hopefully get there [England senior team] and go to the next camp."