Cole Palmer officially addresses rumors about joining Manchester United

Midfielder Cole Palmer has officially dismissed speculation about potentially leaving Chelsea to move to Manchester United, stating he "has no plans" to depart Stamford Bridge in the near future.

Palmer, a long-time Manchester United supporter, grew up in Wythenshawe, a suburb of Manchester. This background has fueled rumors suggesting the 23-year-old player might consider returning to his hometown, especially given that he previously played for Manchester City for 13 years before joining Chelsea for a fee of £42.5 million.

Some sources even claimed that Palmer feels homesick living in London. However, he has completely denied these speculations. Speaking to The Guardian, Palmer said: "People just talk. When I read those things, I just laugh. Manchester is obviously my hometown, my family is there, but I don't miss it. Maybe I would miss it if I didn't go back for a few months, but when I return, I feel there's nothing special there for me."

Not only dismissing transfer rumors, Palmer also reaffirmed his long-term commitment to Chelsea. He revealed having direct discussions with the club's leadership, along with captain Reece James, to outline the team's future direction.

"I have no plans to leave Chelsea. We still have many goals ahead," Palmer emphasized. "We have the FA Cup semifinal, and if we finish the season in a Champions League qualifying position, that will be a good foundation to recruit necessary players. We've spoken with the owners, and they believe in this group."

He also added that major decisions within the team, including Reece James signing a long-term contract extension, are based on transparency from the leadership: "Reece wouldn't sign a six-year contract without understanding the direction. We've discussed extensively what the team needs to improve."

In his first two seasons at Chelsea, Palmer impressed with 43 goals in 97 appearances. However, his performance this season has somewhat stalled, with only 10 goals scored amid the team's inconsistent form.

Currently, Chelsea are ranked 6th in the Premier League, trailing 5th-placed Liverpool by 4 points and Manchester United by 7 points. The two teams will face each directly at Stamford Bridge early tomorrow morning (April 18, Vietnam time) in a match crucial for the Champions League qualification race.