Ryan Giggs Backs Cole Palmer Move to Manchester United as Chelsea Insist Star Is Not for Sale

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has added his voice to growing speculation linking Chelsea’s Cole Palmer with a move to Old Trafford, describing the 22-year-old as an ideal fit for the club’s attacking setup.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube show, Giggs was asked by his former United teammate whether Palmer would be a suitable addition to the squad. “Yeah, he would, Manchester lad,” Giggs said. “Where would he play, with obviously Bruno [Fernandes] at No. 10? He could play off the right, possibly.”

Giggs went further to highlight what he sees as a structural weakness in United’s current squad. “But yeah, we talk about [Rasmus] Hojlund and [Benjamin] Sesko; it’s only really Bruno who is creating things time and time again,” he added. “What if Bruno has a bad day or he’s injured? You need three or four players in your squad who can make things happen for these players to put the ball in the back of the net.”

Palmer has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for the Red Devils, who are said to be seeking creative reinforcements beyond captain Fernandes. According to reports, United pursued Benjamin Sesko and invested significantly in their attack last summer, yet sources suggest the club remains intent on adding further top-tier creative talent ahead of the next campaign.

Despite a difficult season disrupted by muscle injuries and a broken toe, Palmer has still managed ten goals and three assists across 31 Premier League appearances for Chelsea. The England international’s output underscores his quality even in a campaign hampered by fitness issues, making him one of the most coveted players in the division.

Before any transfer discussions can materialise, Palmer’s immediate attention is fixed on Chelsea’s FA Cup final against his former club Manchester City at Wembley. The showpiece fixture represents his final opportunity to add to his tally and end the season on a high note after a frustrating campaign at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea, however, have made their position unambiguous. The west London club insists Palmer is not available for transfer, with the forward contracted to the club until June 2033 — a deal that significantly strengthens their negotiating hand. Any potential suitor, including United, would face a substantial financial challenge in attempting to prise him away.

The speculation around Palmer reflects a broader pattern of interest from multiple clubs. According to reports, Palmer has shown some openness to the idea of a move amid Chelsea’s domestic struggles, though no formal approach from United has been confirmed. Sources suggest the situation will become clearer once the FA Cup final concludes and both clubs turn their attention to summer planning.

For United, the pursuit of Palmer — if it advances — would represent a significant statement of intent under their current leadership. Giggs’ public endorsement, while carrying no official weight, reflects a sentiment shared by sections of the club’s support: that a generational creative talent, born in Manchester and developed through the City academy, would represent a marquee acquisition capable of reducing the team’s dependence on a single playmaker.