New Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has delivered a definitive response to mounting speculation surrounding the future of star midfielder Cole Palmer, emphatically dismissing rumours of a potential transfer to Manchester United as "unrealistic" and baseless.
Rosenior's Firm Stance on Palmer's Future
Speaking ahead of Chelsea's crucial Champions League fixture against Napoli, Rosenior addressed the swirling reports head-on. When questioned directly about Palmer's status and happiness at the club, the Blues boss provided a concise yet powerful reply: "Yes and yes."
Rosenior elaborated further, stating: "It's simple: Cole's an incredible player like [Moises Caicedo] sitting next to me and many players in the group. I'm not surprised at the timing of the rumours. A new manager comes in and all of a sudden there's people looking to unsettle. It's not true."
Addressing the Transfer Speculation
The Chelsea manager went on to describe the Manchester United links as coming "from nowhere" and insisted there was "nothing in it." He emphasised that Palmer remains fully committed to Chelsea, revealing: "Cole's here, he's very happy and I can't wait to see him on the pitch. There's no reason for an assurance from Chelsea's directors. It's so unrealistic."
Rosenior highlighted the productive nature of his conversations with the 23-year-old England international, noting: "We've had numerous conversations with him on how we can make this team better, how he can improve and how I can help him - because he loves being here and he wants to be a Chelsea player."
Palmer's Chelsea Situation
The transfer speculation emerged following reports that Palmer, who grew up supporting Manchester United, might be open to a return to the North West. Some sources suggested the midfielder had become unsettled in London after two-and-a-half years with Chelsea, following his £42.5 million move from Manchester City.
However, Rosenior categorically rejected these claims, describing Palmer as "a huge part of our plans in the long term" and "an outstanding player." The Chelsea boss acknowledged that every footballer experiences challenging periods, particularly with injuries, but stressed this should not be interpreted as dissatisfaction with the club.
Positive News on the Injury Front
In a significant boost for Chelsea supporters, Palmer has travelled with the squad to Naples for their Champions League encounter after missing the previous two matches due to a thigh problem. His inclusion in the 24-man travelling party represents a timely return as Chelsea seek to secure automatic qualification for the competition's last 16 with a positive result.
Rosenior concluded his remarks on the transfer speculation with a broader observation about football journalism: "You can't stop speculation, but some speculation is so far from the truth, there's no point having any discussion about it." His comments represent the clearest indication yet that Chelsea consider Palmer fundamental to their future ambitions and have no intention of entertaining offers for their prized asset.
