Chelsea
Premier League • England
Chelsea to ‘open talks’ for Man City star Guardiola will sell, as Pochettino identifies ‘best solution’ to key problem
Chelsea are reportedly considering a move for Manchester City star Cole Palmer as Mauricio Pochettino looks to bring in attacking additions.
The Blues have signed in nine new players this summer, including big-money signings such as Moises Caicedo (£115m) and Romeo Lavia (£58m).
Chelsea are still looking a little light in forward areas, however, and it’s thought that Pochettino wants to bring in an attacking midfielder before the transfer window slams shut on Friday.
Several players have been considered by the London club recently. Arsenal’s Emile Smith Rowe is one option, although West Ham are thought to be leading the race for his signature.
It now seems that Palmer has become Chelsea’s top target. The 21-year-old broke into the Man City team in 2021/22. He has since made 41 appearances in all competitions, scoring six goals and making two assists.
Palmer has the ability to play as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, so could provide cover in several areas for Chelsea this season. He also has the potential to become a superstar in the future.
With that in mind, Palmer could be the missing link Pochettino has been looking for to help the Blues bounce back from a dismal 2022/23 campaign.
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Chelsea ‘really want’ Cole Palmer
According to reputed transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea see Palmer as ‘the best possible solution’ to their attacking problems.
On Twitter, Romano wrote: “EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea add Cole Palmer to list of talented offensive players being considered for final addition!
“Chelsea are set to open talks soon as they see Palmer as the best solution. It remains to be seen Man City position on Palmer but Chelsea really want him.”
It isn’t clear at this stage how much Man City will demand for Palmer, who is under contract at the Etihad until 2026.
Guardiola suggested in an interview earlier this month, however, that he could be sold this summer.
“I don’t think a loan is going to happen [for Palmer]. He’s going to stay or going to sell, but I think a loan is not going to happen. I understand he wants to be more active than the previous season.
“But Riyad [Mahrez] has gone so we have one more place there. I cannot say anything because, of course, all the decisions need to be made by the club. The club has to decide what the best is. All together, we will do it.”
Since that interview, Man City have signed Jeremy Doku from Rennes as a replacement for Mahrez. As a result, a departure for Palmer is looking increasingly likely.
Whether or not Chelsea can agree a fee with the Cityzens, however, is still unclear at this stage.
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