Chelsea set to test Brighton's resolve with a huge offer for defensive ace

Premier League giants Chelsea are set to make an offer around £50 million for Brighton and Hove Albion centre-back Lewis Dunk if reports in England are to be believed. 

The towering defender has made 21 appearances for the Seagulls this season so far, scoring two goals against Manchester United and Liverpool while providing three assists.  

Dunk has also had an international cap to his name playing against the United States in November 2018. And, he is in line to be recalled to the England national team for the upcoming friendlies and the Euro 2020 if he can keep up his form. 

And, a move to one of the bigger clubs will only enhance his reputation and could convince Gareth Southgate to recall him to the Three Lions setup which he really deserves. 

Chelsea, who have struggled off late following a strong start to the season, are looking for reinforcements to their squad and have identified the 28-year-old as a candidate to improve their inconsistent defence. 

Brighton and Hove Albion, ever since they were promoted to the Premier League, have shown tremendous defensive resilience as a whole and Dunk has been the biggest reason behind that. 

Brighton might be hesitant to sell one of their most important players but if the Europa League winners are offering £50 million, then that would be an offer hard to refuse. 

However, the Seagulls' manager Graham Potter remains unfazed at the prospect of losing star centre-half Lewis Dunk to Chelsea in a £50 million deal. 

The manager has refused to confirm or deny if the Londoners have made a bid for his skipper. 

He said: "He signed a long term contract (July 2018). We are quite relaxed about the situation. 

“I have really enjoyed working with Lewis as a footballer and as a person. He is really important for us and we are really happy that he is with us. 
“January is always a little bit different to every other month if we are being honest. There is always a lot going on, a lot of talk from you guys (media) questions and interest. 

“The window is open so there is more things going on in that regard but that is normal we know that is the case. When the window is open there is always more talk other than the football.”

Featured Image Credits- ESPN