Paul Scholes Backs Cole Palmer for Manchester United Move on Condition of Bruno Fernandes Exit

Paul Scholes tells Man Utd to sign "maverick" Cole Palmer "all day long" if Bruno Fernandes leaves Old Trafford this summer.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 22, 2026, 6:34 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

A Maverick Talent with Manchester Roots

The prospect of Cole Palmer returning to his home city has gained significant traction following an endorsement from one of Manchester United’s most decorated figures. Paul Scholes, speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, labeled Palmer a premier target for the INEOS-led recruitment department. Despite a recent dip in form attributed to a grueling summer schedule and persistent minor injuries, Palmer remains one of the most productive attacking midfielders in European football. Scholes emphasized that Palmer’s upbringing as a United supporter and his technical "maverick" profile make him a natural fit for the club’s traditional attacking identity, provided the right vacancy exists within the starting eleven.

The Tactical Impasse of the Number Ten Role

The primary obstacle to a blockbuster transfer remains the presence of Bruno Fernandes. Scholes noted that Palmer’s preferred central role is currently occupied by the United captain, and the two profiles may be too similar to coexist effectively in a balanced midfield. According to Scholes, Palmer does not play "instead of" Fernandes under the current tactical framework. Consequently, any pursuit of the 23-year-old would likely hinge on Fernandes' potential departure. The Portuguese international has been a subject of intense speculation regarding a move to the Saudi Pro League, and Scholes suspects that these rumors will intensify as the summer window approaches.

Palmer’s Public Commitment to the Chelsea Project

Despite the mounting speculation, Cole Palmer has attempted to distance himself from a move away from Stamford Bridge. In a recent interview with The Guardian, the forward addressed the rumors with a sense of detachment, stating that he "just laughs" when he sees reports of his pining for Manchester. Palmer insisted that while Manchester is his home, he has no immediate plans to leave London, citing his close relationship with club captain Reece James and his belief in the long-term vision of the Chelsea ownership. He emphasized that the club's performance in the upcoming FA Cup semi-final and their pursuit of a Champions League spot are his current priorities.