Revealed: Chelsea to demand 'world-record fee' as Man City plot deal

Chelsea will not entertain offers for Cole Palmer amid talk of a “sensational” return to Man City, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that it would likely take a “world-record fee” to convince the Blues to let their star man leave Stamford Bridge.

Sources say that Man City regret allowing the 22-year-old to leave the club in 2023, but any talk of a return is premature speculation.

This comes amid talks surrounding the future of Kevin de Bruyne, after recruitment expert Mick Brown told Football Insider that a “big” Saudi offer could tempt him to quit Man City.

It had been suggested that Palmer is on City’s list of potential replacements for their star man, but Chelsea are unwilling to negotiate over his exit.

The England international has become a crucial player at Stamford Bridge, with 31 goals and 20 assists in 54 appearances since making the switch from the Etihad.

Chelsea refuse to entertain Cole Palmer talks amid Man City twist

Palmer has become one of the most highly-regarded players in the Premier League as a result of his performances since joining Chelsea.

Last season’s PFA Young Player of the Year Award-winner’s stock is at an all-time high after dominant performances both for the Blues and for England.

So far this season, he has found the net six times and provided five assists in just seven appearances in the Premier League.

That goal and assist record has established his role as a crucial player in Enzo Maresca’s side and as Chelsea’s most valuable and most important star.

It was Palmer’s decision to leave City in search of first-team football last year – and he is now reaping the rewards of that decision, with a return to Manchester looking unlikely.

Chelsea paid £40million to bring the attacking midfielder to Stamford Bridge in 2023, and are now expected to demand more than triple that fee to entertain talks about his exit.

In other news, insider shares the real reason Lucas Paqueta’s Man City move fell through.

For more Man City and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

The post Revealed: Chelsea to demand 'world-record fee' as Man City plot deal appeared first on Football Insider.