Former Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe has suggested that Chelsea's Cole Palmer would be an ideal replacement for Bruno Fernandes should the Portuguese midfielder leave Old Trafford this summer. Palmer, a boyhood United fan, has impressed at Chelsea since his move from Manchester City in 2023, but Sharpe believes the 23-year-old would struggle for game time if Fernandes remains at the club.
Speaking to BetBrain, Sharpe said: 'I've seen the rumours about Cole Palmer returning to Manchester United, that he's a boyhood fan of the club. Maybe if Bruno Fernandes leaves Old Trafford, then Palmer could be an option to replace him, but if he stays then I don't see how Palmer gets into the team.'
Fernandes' future is uncertain as his contract expires in 2026, with an option for an additional year. The 31-year-old captain attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League last summer, but he has repeatedly pledged his allegiance to United. It is understood that Fernandes will only discuss his future with his agent after the 2026 World Cup.
United have yet to decide on a new deal for Fernandes, partly due to the absence of a permanent manager. Meanwhile, Casemiro is expected to leave when his contract expires this summer, leaving the club short of midfield depth. United have been linked with several midfielders, including Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Elliot Anderson.
Chief executive Omar Berrada has indicated that the club will continue to invest in the squad, stating: 'We continue to take a football-first approach and invest in both our men's and women's first teams.' However, it remains to be seen whether United will meet the reported £100m valuation for some of their midfield targets.
