Manchester United’s reported interest in Chelsea’s Cole Palmer is a rumour that just won’t go away and the latest claim suggests it’s “real and concrete.” The English attacker recently sought to refute claims that he is homesick and open to returning to Manchester with the Red Devils.
Palmer grew up supporting United, and inevitably, that makes Old Trafford a constant destination touted for the former Manchester City star. He has endured a difficult season due to injuries and a lack of form.
The 23-year-old remains one of English football’s top superstars despite his unconvincing campaign. He’s appeared 28 times across competitions, posting 10 goals and three assists.
Palmer has been a revelation for the most part during his time at Stamford Bridge, arriving from City in a £42.5m deal back in the summer of 2023. He lacked game time at the Etihad and instead became the Blues’ talisman.
Manchester United Hold ‘Concrete’ Palmer Interest
Despite Palmer’s dissapointing displays this season, he is seemingly still on INEOS’ radar. According to CaughtOffside, a source claims that interest is real and concrete but a summer move isn’t expected.
Rather, the Reds are believed to be “laying the groundwork” for a future deal. Nothing can occur in the short term unless he “really pushes” for a switch to the Theatre of Dreams.
Palmer only signed a new two-year deal back in August 2024 which doesn’t expire until the summer of 2033. Chelsea’s stance is that the player is not for sale and that all of the noise is just media speculation.
Chelsea Could Ask For £130m
While Chelsea seems confident that Palmer doesn’t want out, a price has been set for how much he could cost. Manchester City’s former financial advisor, Stefan Borson, has told Football Insider that the west Londoners will demand a staggering £130m to part ways.
Borson claims that it’s easy for the Blues to make a profit on Palmer than on Enzo Fernandez who is being linked with an exit. The problem with the Englishman’s valuation is that the only clubs that could “theoretically” afford it are Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
United don’t need Palmer, and for that price, shouldn’t even be considering pursuing him. There seems to be credibility in reports linking the club with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, and he’s a much more reasonably priced attacking midfielder who could be Bruno Fernandes’ long-term heir.
