Brighton captain Lewis Dunk has signed a new five-year contract at the club, ending speculation over a potential summer move to Chelsea.
Lewis Dunk has ended speculation over his future after penning a new deal to keep him at the AMEX stadium.
Chelsea have been linked with the Brighton captain as Frank Lampard reportedly set his sights on him.
The Blues boss is in search of a defensive overhaul for his squad ahead of next season. West Ham’s Declan Rice is the top centre-back option.
However, Lewis Dunk was lined up as an alternative option should the Hammers play hard ball in terms of a fee for Rice.
Chelsea must now look elsewhere for an ‘alternative’ after the 28-year-old affirmed his commitment to Brighton.
“I’m delighted to have signed a new contract,” Dunk told the official Seagulls website.
“The aim now is to build on a record Premier League season and help the club continue its recent progress over the next five years.”
Brighton boss Graham Potter was delighted with Dunk’s decision to extend his stay on the south coast.
“Since I came to the club he’s been a joy to work with and he’s a top player. We are very lucky to have him,” he said of the one-cap England international.
“I think his role as captain is one he’s grown into and one he will do better and better for the next few years.”
“He leads by example on the pitch and he’s a good lad off it – a delight to work with.”
“We’re all determined to push on next season and establish the club in the Premier League and I’m really pleased that Dunk will be with us on that journey.”
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