Manchester United have been told to keep a close watch on Cole Palmer, with former defender Phil Bardsley admitting he would love to see the Chelsea star wearing the red shirt.
Palmer’s recent time at Stamford Bridge has been far from straightforward. Injuries affected his 2025-26 campaign and ultimately contributed to him missing out on England’s World Cup squad. Now, Chelsea have added even more competition in attacking midfield with the £117 million arrival of Morgan Rogers.
Bardsley believes Manchester United should be ready to explore the situation if Palmer’s circumstances at Chelsea change.
Bardsley questions Palmer’s happiness at Chelsea
Palmer remains a hugely important player for Chelsea, but Bardsley feels there have been signs that the England international hasn’t always looked comfortable during the past year.
Speaking about the situation, the former United defender said: “I think Cole Palmer is the key to everything Chelsea are doing but when I’ve watched him play over the last year or so he hasn’t looked like a player who is particularly happy. He’s been going through the motions.”
Chelsea’s major investment in Rogers could add another layer to the situation. With competition for places increasing, Bardsley questioned whether the new arrival could help Palmer rediscover his best form.
“Will bringing in Morgan Rogers put a smile back on Palmer’s face? He’s had injuries which were setbacks but the rumours around Manchester United were interesting. United would be silly not to have a real look at him if there is anything to it but the problem could have also been this Chelsea squad.”
That last point is an interesting one for United. Palmer’s issues may not necessarily be linked to his desire to leave Chelsea. Bardsley believes the wider squad environment could have played a part in how the midfielder has looked.
Chelsea have had a number of inexperienced players in their squad, and Bardsley feels that a lack of senior figures willing to demand higher standards has been an issue.
“They’ve had a lot of inexperienced players at the club who have dropped below the standards needed without people to get tough with them and lay down what’s required and pull people in line, making sure everyone is training correctly every day.”
Manchester United would face huge Cole Palmer transfer hurdle
There is an obvious problem for United, though.
Palmer’s Chelsea contract runs until 2033, meaning the London club are in a very strong negotiating position if any negotiations were to occur. A massive transfer fee makes any move extremely complicated, especially with United attempting to sign one of the Premier League’s most valuable players from a rival English club.
Bardsley believes the situation is worth monitoring, particularly if Palmer’s situation at Chelsea changes.
The former United defender also pointed to Chelsea’s experienced additions as something that could change the picture.
“Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson can certainly address that but I hope they don’t turn it around to make Palmer happy where he is because I’d love to see him in a red shirt!”
For United supporters, that final comment will certainly catch the eye. Palmer joining United remains a long way from being a realistic transfer scenario, particularly given his contract situation and the fee Chelsea would likely demand from a Premier League rival.
Still, Bardsley’s message is simple. Manchester United shouldn’t ignore the situation.
Palmer’s future at Chelsea may not be in doubt right now, but should that ever change, United would have every reason to investigate.
