Reports have emerged linking Cole Palmer with a move to Manchester United, with the England star reportedly feeling homesick in west London.
Cole Palmer celebrates a goal for Chelsea.
Cole Palmer has been linked with a shock transfer to Man Utd from Chelsea. (Image: Chris Lee - Chelsea FC, Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
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Manchester United could offer the ideal transfer present to Cole Palmer, with his favoured shirt number, should he pull off a sensational switch to the club - as has been mooted in bombshell reports.
The England attacking midfielder, 23, has emerged as one of the Premier League's most impressive performers over the past two campaigns, following his transfer from Manchester City to Chelsea in summer 2023. During his spell at Stamford Bridge, he has netted 48 goals and contributed a further 29 assists across 110 outings.
This campaign has, nevertheless, been impacted by a persistent groin problem. Throughout the past week, stories have surfaced connecting Palmer with a remarkable switch to United. It's claimed that the England international is restless in London and is experiencing homesickness.
The 23-year-old was raised as a boyhood United supporter, but progressed through the academy at rivals City. He established himself in the senior squad under Pep Guardiola during the 2021/22 campaign, before then securing his switch to Chelsea just over a year afterwards.
The Blues are unlikely to surrender their prized asset without strong resistance with reports indicating Palmer is regarded as one of the 'untouchables' whom the club have no intention of offloading. That position could in turn shift, if Palmer genuinely demands a transfer away - back to Manchester or elsewhere.
Should United pursue a deal, then the perfect welcoming gesture could arrive in the squad number he receives. Currently, the club's No.20 jersey is vacant for any fresh arrivals.
That was the number that Palmer wore in his first two seasons at Chelsea. He now wears the No.10 jersey there, however, after switching things around before the current season.
Cole Palmer speaks with teammate Estevao during a training session.
Cole Palmer is reported to be homesick after moving from Man City to Chelsea in 2023.(Image: Jasper Wax, Getty Images)
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That number at United is currently taken up by summer signing Matheus Cunha, who is unlikely to relinquish the shirt without a fight. But the No.20 has been free since the end of last season, when Diogo Dalot vacated it.
Discussing the speculation around Palmer last week, Chelsea's manager Liam Rosenior appeared to dismiss the homesickness claims. "I've had numerous conversations with Cole and he seems very happy to be here," he said.
"He's a huge part in our long-term plans here. 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.
"There was frustration in the Brentford game. We need to look after him, and that's why I didn't involve him in the last game."
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