Chelsea set for transfer talks with Aston Villa over midfielder Cole Palmer loves

Chelsea could face an interesting January transfer decision, with Aston Villa reportedly stepping up their interest in Romeo Lavia ahead of the winter window.

The Belgian midfielder has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at Stamford Bridge and Unai Emery is understood to view him as the ideal midfielder.

However, Chelsea are not actively looking to sell, meaning Villa could have some convincing to do if they want to bring the 22-year-old to Birmingham.

According to German outlet Fussball News, Aston Villa are seriously considering a move for Lavia in January.

Villa are looking to strengthen their defensive midfield options following an injury to Amadou Onana, with Emery reportedly identifying the Chelsea midfielder as a top target.

Lavia's combination of physical presence, defensive ability and quality in possession is said to have caught the Spaniard's attention.

The report also claims Villa are preparing potential discussions with Chelsea, with contact already taking place through intermediaries and representatives to explore the possibility of a deal.

There is no agreement between the clubs at this stage, though, and Villa would still need to convince Chelsea to part ways with a player who remains under contract until 2030.

Chelsea are not actively planning to sell Lavia, but that doesn't mean the midfielder is untouchable.

Fussball News reports that the Blues could consider their options if an offer between £30 and £35million is made.

There is also the question of whether Lavia would actually want to leave Stamford Bridge. He seems happy at Stamford Bridge and doesn't appear to be looking to move on.

Not only that, but Lavia's recent upturn in form has seen him earn the praise of teammate Cole Palmer, who believes he's one of the Blues' most underrated gems.

However, the prospect of regular first-team football could change that stance, especially if his starts under Xabi Alonso remain limited.

Chelsea would have to weigh up the financial benefits of a potential sale against the risk of losing a midfielder who still has plenty of time to develop.

Lavia arrived from Southampton in 2023 with significant expectations, and there is little doubt that his quality could make him an important player if he can stay injury-free and nail down a spot next to Moises Caicedo.