Brighton captain Lewis Dunk has signed a new five-year contract at the club, ending speculation over a potential summer move to Chelsea.
The English centre-back was one of the defenders linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge over recent weeks as Frank Lampard looks to further strengthen his squad for the 2020-21 campaign, which begins next month.
Standard Sport understands that West Ham's Declan Rice is Chelsea's first-choice target in that position, with Dunk a possible alternative option, though one that Brighton were thought to value at around the £40million mark.
However, the 28-year-old has now reaffirmed his commitment to Brighton, penning a new five-year contract at the Amex Stadium lasting until the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
“I’m delighted to have signed a new contract,” Dunk - who has made almost 300 senior appearances for Brighton after graduating from the club's youth system - 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.
Chelsea 2020 summer transfer window
“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 Lewis will be with us on that journey.”
