Manchester United Weigh Cole Palmer as a Bold Successor to Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United’s season has taken a difficult turn after their FA Cup exit, leaving the Premier League as their sole remaining focus. With European qualification now a priority, the club is under pressure to stabilize its project ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. Ongoing issues on and off the pitch have fueled speculation that Bruno Fernandes could consider leaving, forcing United to assess potential replacements.

Reports suggest that United are monitoring Chelsea’s Cole Palmer as a possible successor to Fernandes. Despite an injury-disrupted season, Palmer has maintained his reputation as one of the Premier League’s standout performers. His development at both Manchester City and Chelsea has confirmed his quality, making him an attractive option for a club seeking creativity and goal threat from midfield.

However, a move to Old Trafford appears far from straightforward. Palmer remains a key figure at Chelsea, and his importance to their long-term plans makes a sale unlikely unless an exceptional offer is made. Chelsea’s recent spending has not reduced their reliance on him, reinforcing his status as a central part of their sporting project.

Financial realities also complicate the situation for Manchester United. Palmer’s market value is estimated at around £105 million, a figure that would demand a significant portion of United’s budget at a time when multiple areas of the squad require investment. Allocating such resources to one player may not align with the club’s broader rebuilding needs.

Additional obstacles further reduce the likelihood of the transfer. Palmer’s history with Manchester City could affect both his willingness to move and United’s public perception of the deal. If Chelsea were ever to consider selling, an overseas transfer might be more appealing. Taken together, these factors make Palmer an improbable replacement, pushing United to explore more realistic alternatives should Fernandes depart.