Marcel Desailly has cast doubt on Cole Palmer's long-term future at Chelsea, suggesting the England international could hand in a transfer request if he does not believe the club can win the Premier League in the next two seasons.
Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City two and a half years ago and has become a key figure in the club's rebuilding project. However, Desailly fears the 23-year-old may seek a move unless Chelsea show they can compete with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City.
Speaking to Card Player, Desailly said: 'The question is whether he feels Chelsea are going to win the Premier League in the next two seasons. If he doesn't, I'm sure he will ask for a transfer request to a club that will build a system around him.'
Reports earlier this week suggested Palmer is not as settled in London as he once was and has started to miss Manchester. Desailly, a former Chelsea captain, urged Palmer to respect the club that gave him the platform to shine, but acknowledged the need for stability and a system built around him.
Desailly also praised new manager Liam Rosenior, who has won three of his first four games in charge. He described Rosenior as a 'good fit' for Chelsea's young squad and backed the owners to allow him to create a new chapter over the next three years.
