Rosenier says Palmer’s Man Utd links ‘unrealistic’

Chelsea Boss Liam Rosenier has insisted Cole Palmer is happy at the club and made it clear he considers the England international « untouchable » amid recent transfer links to Manchester United.

Palmer endured a difficult 2025-26 season for the Blues, with his campaign hampered by injuries.

The former Manchester City striker has five goals in 13 appearances in all competitions this season and is yet to register an assist. Last season he scored 15 goals and provided 11 assists before playing a major role in Chelsea’s Club World Cup winning campaign.

Manchester-born Palmer was a United fan as a child and his links with a move to Old Trafford came after reports he was homesick for London.

However, Rosenier categorically rejected such speculations.

Asked if he considered Palmer untouchable and whether the 23-year-old was happy at Stamford Bridge, Rosenier told a press conference: « Yes and yes. Cole is an amazing player, as I have the boy sitting next to me (Moises Caicedo) and many players in the group.

« I’m not surprised at the time, a new manager is coming in and the player is restless. It’s not true. Cole is here, he’s very happy and I can’t wait to see him back on the pitch. »

Rosenier was pressed on whether he had had any discussions about Palmer’s future with Chelsea’s co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Lawrence Stewart.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Napoli, Rosenior added: « There’s no reason for confidence. It’s so unrealistic (for him to join United). It came out of nowhere.

« We don’t need to have a conversation. Cole is happy. You can’t stop speculation, but some speculation is so far from the truth that there’s no point in having a conversation about it. »

Chelsea visit the Stadio San Paolo eighth in the league stage table. They are one of eight teams with 13 points and will almost certainly need a positive result to seal a top 8 finish and automatic progression to the last 16.