‘Set to open talks’: Chelsea about to move to sign player who Rio Ferdinand called a ‘mad talent’

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Chelsea are now keen to sign Cole Palmer from Manchester City in a dramatic move before Friday’s transfer deadline.

That is according to Fabrizio Romano.

So, what is the situation involving Cole Palmer and Chelsea? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well, the Blues are planning to make one more signing, and those on the recruitment team have now identified the Manchester City No.80 as the “best solution” – according to Romano.

The reliable Italian journalist believes Chelsea are now set to open negotiations with the Citizens over a deal for Palmer, following his superb start to the 2023/24 campaign.

In just three appearances so far this season, the 21-year-old has scored two goals, netting against Arsenal in the FA Community Shield and also against Sevilla in the UEFA Super Cup.

Romano wrote: “Chelsea add Cole Palmer to list of talented offensive players being considered for final addition!

“Chelsea are set to open talks soon as they see Palmer as best solution. It remains to be seen Man City position on Palmer but Chelsea really want him.”

Palmer – who Rio Ferdinand recently called a “mad talent” – is starting to receive more opportunities under Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium nowadays, so it remains to be seen if Manchester City will entertain Chelsea’s interest.

Cole Palmer is not what Chelsea need right now

In our view, Chelsea will waste precious time if many hours are spent on this deal between now and Friday.

Manchester City have absolutely no need to sell Palmer, and we can’t see why Guardiola would want to hand him over to a Premier League rival following his excellent start to the campaign.

Furthermore, Chelsea already have an exceptional talent who cuts inside from the right flank onto his stronger left foot in Noni Madueke, someone who is not playing much as it is.

Mauricio Pochettino needs either a versatile No.10 who can play anywhere across the frontline – such as Rayan Cherki – or the Argentine must go big with a proper No.9 like Ivan Toney or Randal Kolo Muani.

While Palmer is a brilliant player, he would not change much at Stamford Bridge right now – in our view – and Manchester City surely won’t make negotiations easy for Chelsea by any means.

Nevertheless, be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Chelsea set their sights on the England Under-21 international.