Cole Palmer Signs with Chelsea, Not Manchester United

Cole Palmer's switch to Manchester United is dead in the water despite speculation linking him with the club. Manchester United won't be pursuing Cole Palmer, instead focusing on landing a world-class defensive midfielder.

What happened with Cole Palmer's transfer?

Manchester United academy coach Colin Little revealed the club was close to signing Cole Palmer when he was 16. Little said he knew Cole Palmer's family quite well and that Palmer was a big United fan.

Why it matters for Cole Palmer

Palmer put pen to paper on a nine-year deal with Chelsea in 2023, meaning he remains contracted to the club until at least 2033. Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior addressed the rumors directly, stating there's no reason for assurance and that Cole Palmer is very happy at Chelsea. Rosenior had numerous conversations with Palmer, and their thoughts are on how to make the team better and help Palmer improve.

What comes next for Cole Palmer?

Palmer has previously acknowledged his childhood allegiance to Manchester United, telling TNT Sports he was a United fan growing up. But Palmer loves being at Chelsea and wants to be a Chelsea player, according to Rosenior. Palmer scored a hat-trick against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in 2024, and he's focused on playing football. Manchester United already snapped up Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha last summer, so they're well-covered in attacking midfield positions. Cole Palmer's future is now clear, and he'll continue to play for Chelsea. The club's decision not to pursue Palmer allows them to focus on other transfer targets, like a defensive midfielder. Manchester United's coach revealed that they were close to getting Cole Palmer when he was about 16, but it didn't work out. City made him a good enough offer, and Palmer chose to sign with Chelsea instead.