Cole Palmer has hailed Romeo Lavia as one of his “favourite midfielders” following the 22-year-old’s performance during Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Manchester United on Saturday afternoon.

Lavia has endured an injury-disrupted three years at Chelsea since his arrival from Southampton for €62 million, but he has cemented himself as a key part of Xabi Alonso’s squad this season and he looks set for an extended period in the starting XI amid Reece James’ current absence.

In recent months, rumours have strongly suggested that Chelsea may be open to offloading Lavia due to his persistent injury troubles, but Palmer has urged the club to retain faith in the Belgium international.

“Today was one of the best games I've seen him [Lavia] play,” Palmer told reporters after Chelsea’s win against Man Utd.

“I've said all along he's one of my favourite midfielders, and people still don't realise how good he is.

“Obviously he's had his injury problems, but he's trying to put that behind him now and put in performances like today. I thought he was the best player on the pitch.”

Lavia still has over three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract at Chelsea and while the club are desperate to finalise a deal for Bournemouth star Alex Scott in January, it seems unlikely they will sell the Belgium international if his form continues.

Who could leave Chelsea in 2027?

While Lavia appears highly likely to remain at Chelsea next year, there are several Blues stars who could look to leave the club.

Jamie Gittens faces an uncertain future after a proposed summer move to AS Roma fell through, while widespread reports suggest that offers will be considered for Malo Gusto amid interest from Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.

Chelsea will also likely look to sanction the permanent sales of Benoit Badiashile, Alejandro Garnacho, Robert Sanchez, Axel Disasi, Mykhailo Mudryk and Filip Jorgensen after their loan spells away from the club expire at the end of the 2026-27 campaign.