Cole Palmer tipped as potential Bruno Fernandes successor at Man Utd

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has been billed as a potential successor to Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United, amid speculation he could be tempted to join the Red Devils after becoming homesick in London, Goal reported on Jan 28, 2026. Former Liverpool player Danny Murphy told BestBettingSites.co.uk that Palmer could be an option for United but stressed Chelsea hold leverage.

"No, because they’ve got him under a long-term contract, so they can keep him either way," Murphy said, adding that Champions League qualification would "make it much easier to quieten the noise around other clubs trying to get him." Murphy also pointed to Palmer’s injury-hit season and a reported "nagging thigh or groin problem," but called him "a special player" and said, "A lot of Chelsea fans think the club is more of a business than a football project, so could I see Cole Palmer leaving for Manchester United?

Yes, I could." The piece also notes Fernandes has been tipped to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season, with clubs in Saudi Arabia believed to be interested. Chelsea coach Russell Rosenior strongly denied any suggestion Palmer is unsettled in London, telling reporters: "There's no reason for assurance.

It's so unrealistic. It's come from nowhere. There's nothing in it. There's no reason to have the conversation. That's where I'm at. Cole is very happy. I've had numerous conversations with him...

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