Cole Palmer has addressed the ongoing speculation linking Chelsea to a potential transfer of Manchester United’s emerging midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo. Reports suggest Chelsea is currently the front-runner to sign the 19-year-old, with uncertainty surrounding his future at Old Trafford. This speculation stems from stalled contract negotiations between Mainoo and Manchester United.
Although Mainoo signed a contract extension with Manchester United in 2023 that keeps him at the club until 2027, he is reportedly seeking a new deal that reflects his growing role as a first-team regular and a rising international prospect. Meanwhile, Manchester United is aiming to reduce their wage bill, with rumors indicating they might offload high-earning players such as Casemiro, Antony, and Marcus Rashford. This financial strategy has raised questions about the club’s willingness or ability to meet Mainoo’s salary demands.
The rumors of Mainoo potentially joining Chelsea gained momentum after an Instagram post surfaced showing him wearing a Chelsea shirt, with Chelsea player Cole Palmer liking the post. This action led some fans and analysts to speculate that Palmer was endorsing the move. Palmer also took part in an online poll asking if Mainoo should switch to Chelsea, further fueling the transfer chatter.
Mainoo is reportedly seeking a significant pay increase, with some sources claiming he’s demanding up to £200,000 per week to stay at Manchester United. This high salary request could prove difficult for the club, especially given their financial concerns and the need to comply with profit and sustainability regulations. As a result, there are reports suggesting Manchester United might consider selling Mainoo, along with fellow academy graduate Alejandro Garnacho, to ease their financial situation. The sale of these homegrown players could provide a major financial boost for the club, as their transfers would be seen as pure profit.
This situation has cast doubt on Mainoo’s future at Old Trafford, as his salary demands seem to clash with the club’s financial strategy.
With Chelsea reportedly eager to sign the talented midfielder and Palmer’s social media activity seeming to support the move, the transfer saga continues to generate significant attention. The next few weeks will likely reveal whether Mainoo stays at Manchester United or embarks on a new chapter at Chelsea.
