Manchester City Launch £147M Bid to Re-Sign Cole Palmer – Chelsea Firm on “Not for Sale” Stance
Manchester City have reportedly submitted a staggering £147 million bid to re-sign Cole Palmer from Chelsea, less than two years after selling him. According to Fichajes, Pep Guardiola remains a huge admirer of the England international and sees him as a key creative reinforcement following the departure of Kevin De Bruyne to Napoli.
City have been active in the summer market, already landing Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Sverre Nypan, but the potential return of Palmer — now considered one of the Premier League’s standout performers — would be their biggest statement yet.
Chelsea Not Interested in Selling
Chelsea, however, have made it clear: Palmer is not for sale. The 22-year-old, who joined the Blues for £42.5 million in 2023, has flourished since arriving at Stamford Bridge. In the 2024/25 season, he led the club to Club World Cup glory, scoring twice in the final against PSG, and helped secure Champions League qualification.
He also signed a new long-term contract that keeps him tied to the club until 2033 — giving Chelsea full control of his future and the leverage to resist any offers, no matter how large.
Palmer’s Rise to Superstardom
Palmer has been labelled “world-class” by former Chelsea defender David Luiz, and ex-assistant coach Jody Morris recently declared Chelsea have a “superstar” on their hands. With 12 goals and 11 assists across all competitions last season, the midfielder has become a central figure in the club’s project under manager Enzo Maresca.
PSG and Real Madrid are also reportedly monitoring his situation, with reports suggesting PSG could table an offer exceeding £200 million following his performance in the Club World Cup final.
Man City Also Want James Trafford
In addition to Palmer, City are also eyeing the return of goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley. A £40 million buy-back clause exists, but they’re hoping to negotiate a lower fee. This move depends on whether Ederson or Stefan Ortega-Moreno leaves this summer, with Galatasaray showing strong interest in Ederson.
Cole Palmer’s rise from academy prospect to world-class talent has been nothing short of spectacular. While Manchester City are eager to correct what some now consider a mistake, Chelsea are in a strong position — and not looking to cash in on their crown jewel anytime soon.
