Cole Palmer linked with shock Chelsea exit

March 30, 2026 Oliver Obel

Questions are growing around Cole Palmer’s long-term future at Chelsea after a tabloid report suggested the England international could consider leaving the club this summer.

According to The Sun, Palmer is “disillusioned” and may weigh up his options before the 2026 World Cup, although the claim has not been independently confirmed.

The 23-year-old has remained an important figure for Chelsea despite an injury-disrupted campaign, scoring nine goals in 20 Premier League appearances this season.

Any suggestion of a departure, however, runs up against the reality of his contract situation. Chelsea extended Palmer’s deal through 2033 last year, a reflection of how highly the club rates him, and a factor that would likely make any transfer both complicated and expensive.

The report links Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid with potential interest, though it offers no indication that formal talks have taken place.

A move to United would carry added intrigue. Palmer came through Manchester City’s academy but has previously spoken about supporting their local rivals as a child.

“I used to be a United fan when I was younger, and I used to watch Rooney all the time,” he told talkSPORT in 2024.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, have increasingly targeted Premier League talent in recent seasons, while Real Madrid continue to build a squad that already includes England midfielder Jude Bellingham.

Even so, Chelsea’s reported valuation put at around £150 million by The Sun and Palmer’s long-term contract mean a summer exit would be difficult to execute.

With competition for places in England’s World Cup squad intensifying, including from players such as Phil Foden, Palmer’s form over the coming months could prove decisive both for club and country.

Sources: The Sun, talkSPORT, Premier League, Chelsea FC