Sources: 'Surprise' twist as Chelsea superstar could reunite with Maresca at Man City
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(Credit: Imago) Sun 24 May 2026 7:58, UK Cole Palmer could be tempted to leave Chelsea in favour of a return to Manchester City amid doubts about his future, sources have told Football Insider.Pep Guardiola recently announced he would be leaving the Etihad at the end of the season, and former Blues boss Enzo Maresca is the front-runner to replace him.That has led to suggestions that the 24-year-old could reunite with his former manager at the club where he came through the academy before moving to West London.However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, any move for Palmer to return to Man City is highly unlikely as things stand.The England international’s future at Stamford Bridge has been subject to speculation after what has been a difficult season, and a move could depend on Man City’s transfer plans. 🔄 Man City Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, elite targets, and contract news from the City Football Group boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Cole Palmer make a sensational return to Man City?Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider on 23 April that Chelsea could sell Palmer this summer, but they will demand a high price.The attacking midfielder is likely to be valued at up to £130million, meaning there are only a few clubs in European football who would be capable of landing him.Cole Palmer2025-26 StatsAppearances33Starts18Minutes Played2353Goals10Assists3Cole Palmer’s stats for Chelseas in the 2025-26 season.
(via Transfermarkt)Man City would likely be among those given their financial might, but will a long time left on his Blues contract, any move for Palmer is far from likely.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “I’d be very surprised if Cole Palmer made a move back to Man City this summer.“There’s been a lot of speculation about his future and links with different clubs, but I don’t see Chelsea entertaining any moves for Cole Palmer, especially now they’re going to start this new project under Xabi Alonso.“Manchester City obviously had Cole Palmer and sold him on to Chelsea so I don’t think they will be rushing out to try and lure him back.“If he was to leave, it’s not going to be a cheap deal, and maybe Man City financially could afford it, but they’re not going to spend that much money on Palmer.“There are obvious connections with Man City and with Enzo Maresca as well, that’s probably why there has been talk that it could happen, but I would say there’s no chance really.” Will Enzo Maresca be the next Man City manager?Guardiola announced on 22 May that Man City’s final-day clash against Aston Villa at the Etihad would be his last in the dugout in an emotional message to the fans.While his exit will likely send shockwaves across English football, it has not come as a surprise, and City have been putting plans in place for his successor.Borson told Football Insider last month that Man City have been in talks with Maresca about becoming their next manager as they aim to prepare for the future.The former Chelsea and Leicester City manager previously worked as the assistant to Guardiola and is available after leaving Stamford Bridge in January.While he was not considered the only candidate, with the likes of Vincent Kompany also linked, he is now increasingly likely to step into the role next season. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man City Insider Access Get the full story from the Etihad Stadium and CFA with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the Etihad Campus.