Cole Palmer has addressed growing speculation linking Chelsea with a move for Manchester United’s promising midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
Reports indicate that Chelsea is currently leading the race to secure the services of the 19-year-old, whose negotiations for a new contract at Old Trafford have reportedly stalled.
Mainoo, who signed a deal with United in 2023 that keeps him tied to the club until 2027, is said to be seeking a new agreement that reflects his increased importance as a first-team player and international prospect.
However, Manchester United’s ongoing efforts to reduce their wage bill and balance finances have cast doubt on Mainoo’s future at the club.
Reports suggest that United might be open to offloading high earners like Casemiro, Antony, and Marcus Rashford, which further complicates the situation for Mainoo.
Adding fuel to the transfer rumors, an Instagram post recently surfaced showing Mainoo in a Chelsea jersey.
This image quickly gained attention after Palmer liked the post, signaling his potential interest in the young midfielder’s move to Stamford Bridge.
Palmer also engaged with a poll asking whether Mainoo joining Chelsea would be a good decision, further intensifying the buzz surrounding the transfer.
Mainoo is reportedly demanding a significant salary increase, potentially around £200,000 per week, to remain with Manchester United.
However, the club’s financial strategy and focus on profit and sustainability could make meeting such demands challenging.
Speculation has also emerged suggesting that Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, both homegrown talents, could be sold to help the club meet financial fair play regulations.
As academy products, their sales would represent pure profit on United’s balance sheet, making their departures a more financially attractive option for the club.
Chelsea’s interest in Mainoo aligns with their recent focus on signing young, versatile players capable of contributing both immediately and in the future.
With contract talks at United seemingly at a standstill, Chelsea’s pursuit of the midfielder has gained significant momentum, and fans are closely following developments.
Should Mainoo leave United, it would represent a major shake-up for the club, especially given his rising profile as a talented player with first-team experience.
For Chelsea, securing a player of Mainoo’s caliber would be a significant boost to their midfield options as they continue to rebuild under their current management.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Chelsea can capitalize on United’s financial constraints to bring Mainoo to Stamford Bridge.