Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has delivered a firm and unequivocal rebuttal to swirling transfer rumours, categorically denying any possibility of Cole Palmer moving to Manchester United. Rosenior labelled his star playmaker as 'untouchable' and insisted the player is profoundly content at Stamford Bridge.
Speculation Dismissed as 'Unrealistic'
Speculation had intensified over the past day, suggesting that Palmer, a boyhood Manchester United supporter, might be receptive to a switch to Old Trafford. The 23-year-old England international is currently in Italy with the Chelsea squad ahead of a crucial Champions League clash against Napoli. This pivotal match requires a victory for Chelsea to secure automatic qualification for the knockout stages, while Napoli must also win to remain in European competition.
'Yes, and Yes' on Happiness and Status
When directly questioned on whether Palmer is both 'untouchable' and 'happy at Chelsea', Rosenior's response was succinct and definitive: 'Yes, and yes.' Pressed further on whether the club's hierarchy had provided assurances regarding Palmer's future, the coach expressed bewilderment at the very premise of the rumours.
'There's no reason for assurance,' Rosenior stated. 'It's so unrealistic. It's come from nowhere. There's nothing in it. There's no reason to have the conversation. That's where I'm at.'
Palmer Committed to Chelsea Project
Rosenior elaborated on his close relationship with the player, revealing numerous conversations focused solely on football development. 'Cole is very happy. I've had numerous conversations with him. Our thoughts are on how we can make this team better, how he can improve and how I can help him. He loves being here and he wants to be a Chelsea player.'
The coach acknowledged the inevitability of transfer gossip but dismissed this particular story as baseless. 'You can't stop speculation, but some speculation is so far from the truth. There's no point in having a discussion about it.'
Timing Linked to Managerial Change
Rosenior also suggested the timing of the rumours was predictable, linking it to his recent appointment as head coach. 'It's simple. Cole is an incredible player. I'm not surprised at the timing. A new manager comes in and all of a sudden there are people unsettled. It's not true. Cole's here, he's very happy and I can't wait to see him back on the pitch.'
Sterling Exit Talks Progress Quietly
Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Raheem Sterling's prolonged exile from the Chelsea first team appears to be nearing a resolution. Rosenior declined to elaborate on the winger's specific circumstances during his pre-match press conference in Italy.
The 31-year-old Sterling, who earns a reported £325,000 per week, is close to marking a symbolic milestone, having not featured for the Blues since May 2024. He is set to miss what would have been his 100th game for the club during this period of absence.
While sources have not confirmed whether a sale before Monday's transfer deadline is imminent, or if a settlement over the remainder of his lucrative contract is being negotiated, it is understood that discussions regarding his departure from Stamford Bridge are actively ongoing.
