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Analysis
- 1 minutes ago
Cole Palmer drops Chelsea transfer hint
Cameron Smith
- 16 May 2025 12:00 BST
- 4 min read
News
Cole Palmer has hinted that Chelsea don’t need to sign a new central midfielder this summer due to Romeo Lavia’s return to full fitness.
The Blues have been heavily linked with Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo in recent months, but Palmer believes that Lavia is ready to play a key role at Stamford Bridge next season.
Current ETV
Roméo Lavia
DM, M (C)
Chelsea
Roméo Lavia
DM, M (C)
Chelsea
ETV Range
€49.2M - €60.1M
The Belgium international has struggled with injury problems since his arrival from Southampton in 2023, however he has started each of Chelsea’s last three Premier League matches and Palmer heaped praise on the 21-year-old during a recent interview with Sky Sports.
“I think he’s [Lavia] one of the best midfielders I’ve played with, to be honest,” Palmer admitted. “Everyone hasn’t seen it because he’s been injured, obviously I knew him at [Manchester] City.
“I think everyone will realise, I think he will be one of the best midfielders in the world.
“He’s been injured, hasn’t he? So it’s been difficult for him. But I think the games he has played this season you see what difference he’s made.
“I think when he has a full season playing and staying fit I think everyone will realise.”
Lavia has made a total of just 17 appearances for Chelsea, but his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at a career high of €54.6 million, largely thanks to his recent run of games in Enzo Maresca’s preferred starting XI.
Chelsea’s summer transfer plans
While Chelsea could be set to end their pursuit of Mainoo given Lavia’s return to fitness, they are still expected to sign a new striker this summer.
The Blues have identified a number of potential options across Europe, including Victor Osimhen and Liam Delap, while they are also set to bring a new left winger to the club amid Mykhailo Mudryk’s ongoing suspension following a positive doping test last year.
Chelsea will pursue a move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi too, with alternative target Dean Huijsen set to join Real Madrid instead.
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