In a development that could send shockwaves through the Premier League, Chelsea's influential attacker Cole Palmer is said to be receptive to a sensational summer transfer to his childhood club, Manchester United. This comes amid fresh reports suggesting the England international is experiencing homesickness after two-and-a-half years in the capital.
Palmer's Potential Return to the North West
According to a detailed report from The Sun, the 23-year-old forward would welcome interest from Manchester United should they formalise their desire to bring him to Old Trafford. Palmer, who grew up supporting the Red Devils, is not considering a return to Manchester City while Pep Guardiola remains at the helm, despite emerging from their academy.
Palmer made the switch from Manchester City to Chelsea in a £42.5 million deal over two years ago. He has since evolved into one of Chelsea's most crucial creative forces, registering 15 goals and eight assists in the Premier League last season alone.
Chelsea's Stance and Injury Concerns
Despite signing an improved long-term contract until 2033 just last season, Palmer is said to miss his hometown of Wythenshawe. This personal factor is now intersecting with professional challenges, as injuries have plagued his 2025-26 campaign, restricting him to merely 13 appearances for the Blues.
He was notably absent from Chelsea's recent 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace due to a thigh issue, a fact confirmed by head coach Liam Rosenior before the match. Rosenior has directly addressed the swirling transfer speculation, stating he has had numerous conversations with the player.
"I've had numerous conversations with Cole and he seems very happy to be here," Rosenior asserted last week. "He's a huge part in our long-term plans. My job and the club's job is to get him into a situation where he can consistently perform to the level he wants to."
Manchester United's Admiration and Strategic Interest
The potential transfer is further fueled by Manchester United's internal appreciation for Palmer. The club's director of football, Jason Wilcox, witnessed Palmer's development firsthand during his own tenure at Manchester City's academy and is known to be a significant admirer of the player's talents.
This combination of personal sentiment, professional admiration, and reported unsettlement creates a potent mix for the summer transfer window. Chelsea now face the dual challenge of managing Palmer's fitness and reassuring a key asset about his future at Stamford Bridge, while Manchester United monitor the situation closely.
