Man Utd are one switch away from sensational Cole Palmer deal as stance clear
Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has been linked with a move to Manchester United after reports of homesickness but the England international won’t be cheap
Cole Palmer has been linked with a shock move to Manchester United from Chelsea(Image: PA)
Cole Palmer’s name is sure to get the pulses racing among Manchester United fans, and for good reason. Since the 23-year-old made the switch from Manchester City to Chelsea, Palmer has blossomed into one of the Premier League’s standout performers.
During his two-and-a-half-year stint at Stamford Bridge, the England star has notched an impressive 48 goals and 29 assists. His game time has been limited this season due to a persistent groin issue, but he’s still managed to bag five goals in 13 outings.
Palmer’s name was linked to United just last week, with speculation suggesting he’s feeling homesick. Having grown up a United fan before rising through Manchester City’s academy ranks, a possible return has generated massive excitement.
The Sun have now claimed that Palmer would be open to a move to Old Trafford, if the club were keen to sign him – a transfer that would undoubtedly be a showstopper. However, there’s one major snag: what happens to Bruno Fernandes?
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Less than a year after Saudi Pro League clubs were circling, Fernandes is back under the microscope, with his contract set to expire in 2027, albeit with a one-year extension option. Having opted to stay in England, the United skipper voiced his hurt after feeling the club hierarchy were looking to offload him.
With interest certain to revive by season’s end, speculation surrounding a profitable transfer to the Middle East remains rife. United may offer him an increased £400,000 per week to keep him from accepting a substantial deal elsewhere.
Presently, Fernandes stands as United’s leading player, boasting 16 goals from 22 appearances in all competitions. Under Michael Carrick’s 4-2-3-1 strategy, the key playmaker is anticipated to be critical in securing United a Champions League spot.
However, accommodating both Palmer and Fernandes in the team could be challenging. Palmer has seen his peak performance come when assuming the role of number 10 at Chelsea, totalling 32 goals and 18 assists across 73 fixtures as noted by transfermarkt.com..
Should Fernandes opt to extend his tenure, it raises questions about Palmer’s role in the team. Although Palmer displays versatility in taking up wider roles – particularly on the right – his main prowess lies in the central position.
Therefore, securing Palmer would primarily rely on whether Fernandes is enticed by an attractive deal in Saudi Arabia. However, with regard to fresh signings, the crux of United’s decision lies in determining whether the monetary expenditure required to retain Fernandes is justified.
This summer could very well mark the final chance for United to reap a substantial sum from his sale as well as an opportunity for Fernandes to strike his last big career contract. That said, his ability remains unquestionable.
