Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer has previously shared his views on Manchester United as speculation grows over a potential move to Old Trafford.
The Manchester native developed as a youngster at United’s local rivals Manchester City, before sealing a switch to Chelsea in 2023 to secure consistent senior minutes.
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His move to west London has paid off handsomely, as Palmer has blossomed into an England international and a key figure in Chelsea’s youthful squad, contributing 48 goals and 29 assists across 110 appearances.
However, the attacking midfielder’s 2025/26 season has been hampered by a string of setbacks, including groin trouble, a fractured toe and a thigh injury, all of which have stalled his momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup.
According to The Guardian, Palmer is “homesick” and “pondering a return to Manchester” in the summer of 2026, with a move to United seen as more plausible than a reunion with City.
The Sun has also reported that the player is not “enjoying life down south” and “misses” his Manchester-based friends.
Adding to the uncertainty, there have been suggestions that Chelsea are keen to centre their long-term project around Brazilian winger Estevao rather than Palmer.
Despite being under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2033 and earning a reported £162,000 per week, Palmer has openly spoken of his fondness for United, the club he supported growing up.
In an interview with Sky Sports in 2025, Palmer revealed that he enjoys trips to Old Trafford because he “used to go and watch matches” there during his childhood.
The 23-year-old also disclosed that Wayne Rooney was his boyhood hero, stating: “Obviously I supported United, and he was probably the best player when I was watching them.”
Back in 2024, Palmer netted a hat-trick during Chelsea’s dramatic 4-3 victory over United at Stamford Bridge and was later questioned about his allegiance on TNT Sports.
When asked if he had been a United supporter, he responded: “Yeah, when I was growing up, I was a United fan.”
He was then asked whether that connection gave him extra motivation when facing the Red Devils.
Palmer replied: “I just think to try and do the same thing to each time. But I’ve scored away and a few here today, so I’m buzzing.”
Despite his clear admiration for United, any potential transfer remains uncertain, with Chelsea expected to demand a fee in excess of £100 million.
Should a move materialise, Palmer would face competition for a starting role alongside Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount in Michael Carrick’s squad.
