As a Chelsea fan, I honestly have mixed feelings about the reports that Monaco have now submitted official offers for Romeo Lavia.
Lavia is only 22, and when Chelsea signed him from Southampton in 2023, I was really excited about what he could become. There was a lot of confidence in his ability, especially his composure on the ball and the way he can play as a holding midfielder.
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But unfortunately, his time at Chelsea has been heavily affected by injuries.
Last season, he made just 12 Premier League appearances, and when a player spends so much time going in and out of the team, it becomes difficult for him to build rhythm, confidence and consistency. At some point, you have to ask whether a change of environment might actually be better for everyone.
Monaco are reportedly offering Chelsea two possible options: around $29 million for a permanent transfer or a loan deal with a $40 million option to buy.
Personally, I would not be completely against letting Lavia leave.
And I don't say that because I think he is a bad player. Far from it.
Sometimes, a player simply needs a fresh start.
We have seen footballers leave one country or club after struggling with injuries and suddenly find themselves playing regularly and staying fit. Maybe a different medical team, different training methods, a different league or simply a different environment can make a huge difference.
Perhaps Monaco could be that place for Lavia.
My biggest concern is that Chelsea cannot continue carrying players who are constantly unavailable, especially when the club is trying to build a competitive squad. We need midfielders who can actually stay fit and contribute consistently.
At the same time, I would not want Chelsea to make the mistake of selling Lavia too cheaply and then watching him become an incredible player somewhere else.
If the club believes the injuries are something he can overcome, perhaps a loan would be the smarter option. Let him play regularly, regain his confidence and prove that his body can handle consistent football.
Then Chelsea can make a decision later.
But if Monaco are willing to pay a good amount for him permanently, I won't be too heartbroken if Chelsea decide to move on.
Sometimes letting a player go is not admitting that you made a mistake signing him. Sometimes it's accepting that the situation is not working and giving both the player and the club a chance to move forward.
For me, I just want to see Romeo Lavia stay healthy and finally enjoy his football.
Maybe that happens at Chelsea.
Or maybe, just maybe, Monaco could be the fresh start he needs. 💙
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