Cole Palmer, who supported Manchester United in his youth, is said to be pondering his future at Chelsea
Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer grew up supporting Manchester United(Image: Simon Stacpoole/Offside, Offside via Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Cole Palmer has been linked with a sensational transfer to Manchester United amid reports he is unsettled at Chelsea.
The 23-year-old, who came through Manchester City's youth system and is now a key figure at Chelsea, grew up supporting the Red Devils. Across his opening two campaigns at Stamford Bridge, Palmer emerged as one of the Premier League's top players, netting 43 times and registering 29 assists over 97 outings.
However, fitness issues have hampered his progress this season, limiting the England star to just 13 appearances. According to The Sun, Palmer could be receptive to a switch to United as he's reportedly unhappy living in the capital, although a move back to City would be off the table.
Since arriving at Chelsea, the attacking midfielder hasn't hidden his allegiance to the club he idolised growing up. After netting a hat-trick against United at Stamford Bridge in April 2024, Palmer was put on the spot about his boyhood loyalties following the 4-3 victory.
"Yeah, when I was growing up, I was a United fan," he admitted to TNT Sports. "I just think to try and do the same thing. I've scored away [from home] and a few here today, so I'm buzzing.
"I just try and take each game as it comes and show the Chelsea fans and everyone what I came here to do, and that is just play football."
Later that year, Palmer reaffirmed his connection to United while discussing his childhood hero. Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: "Wayne Rooney. I was a United fan when I was younger, and I used to watch him all the time."
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 17: Cole Palmer of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Brentford at Stamford Bridge on January 17, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
Palmer is said to be keen to return to his north-west roots(Image: Chris Lee - Chelsea FC, Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
View 2 Images
In January 2025, the Chelsea ace confessed to Sky Sports that playing at OldTrafford still evoked special memories: "When I do go back to the stadium it's good because I used to go and watch matches there."
Although it's clear that Palmer retains a fondness for United, he has managed to keep these feelings separate from his professional career. Despite rumours of unrest, Palmer previously committed to an extended Chelsea contract until 2033, meaning a hefty transfer fee would be needed to secure a move.
New Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior has addressed the speculation surrounding Palmer, saying: "I've had numerous conversations with Cole, and he seems very happy to be here. He's a crucial part of 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. We need to look after him, and that's why I didn't involve him in the last game (against Crystal Palace)."