Cole Palmer has responded to rumors suggesting Chelsea are “leading the race” to sign Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
Reports indicate that Chelsea is interested in the 19-year-old, who has reportedly attracted the Blues’ attention after contract negotiations with Manchester United stalled. If Mainoo is unable to agree to new terms at Old Trafford, Chelsea is said to be in a favorable position to secure his signature, according to the Daily Mail.
Mainoo signed a contract extension last year that runs until 2027 and has since discussed terms reflecting his role as a first-team player and an England international. However, United appears to be aiming to reduce their wage bill, potentially offloading high earners like Casemiro, Antony, and Marcus Rashford.
Mainoo is reportedly uncertain about the club’s future direction and his prospects of competing in the Champions League soon. This has sparked speculation, with the Instagram account thesecretscout1 posting an edited image of Mainoo in a Chelsea kit, asking followers if the move would be a good decision for him.
Palmer liked the post and took part in a poll about whether Mainoo’s potential move to Chelsea would be beneficial. While it is unclear how Palmer voted, his interaction with the post suggests he might be open to the idea of Mainoo joining Chelsea.
Additionally, it has been reported that Mainoo is seeking a significant pay increase to remain at United, with rumors suggesting he could demand around £200,000 per week for a new contract.
The Daily Mail also reports that both Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho—whose contract runs until 2028—could be sold, as both are homegrown players, and their departure would count as “pure profit” for financial fair play and sustainability.
