Paul Merson tips Cole Palmer to complete Man Utd transfer after Chelsea 'kick in the teeth'

Paul Merson tips Cole Palmer to complete Man Utd transfer after Chelsea 'kick in the teeth'Cole Palmer was the subject of intense transfer speculation during the January window, with Manchester United said to be keen on the Chelsea midfielder ahead of a potential summer moveCommentsSportAaron Morris Senior Sports Reporter20:00, 21 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesCole Palmer has been linked with a move to Manchester United(Image: Charlotte Wilson/Offside, Offside via Getty Images)Paul Merson believes that Cole Palmer will make the switch to Manchester United if Chelsea fail to clinch Champions League qualification for 2026/27. The Wythenshawe-born star was the subject of intense speculation during the January transfer window, with United linked with a surprise swoop for him.‌Reports indicated that the Manchester City academy product was unhappy in the capital, and that he could head back to the north west once again to wear United red. However, such claims were dismissed by Liam Rosenior, who insisted that Palmer is settled at Stamford Bridge.‌The head coach, who assumed control from Enzo Maresca earlier this year, also maintained that the 23-year-old - who is tied to Chelsea until 2033 - is off limits. That's given his extensive contract and the price that the Blues would demand to allow him to depart.‌READ MORE: Cole Palmer caught exploding at Alejandro Garnacho after moment in Man Utd matchREAD MORE: Cole Palmer ultimatum backfires and leaves Chelsea future in doubt after Man Utd linksHowever, as the campaign nears its conclusion, Merson claims that United could prove an appealing destination this summer should Chelsea miss out on Champions League football. Speaking with Sky Sports, the pundit said: "If Chelsea don't beat Brighton on Tuesday, they could be 11th by the end of the week."And do I expect them to beat Brighton on Tuesday? No. The only consolation is if they beat Brighton, then Nottingham Forest - then they have Liverpool in a must-wi...