'Palmer will ask for a transfer request' - Ex-Chelsea star warns of looming drama

Chelsea could be heading towards another major talking point, with concerns growing over the future of their talismanic midfielder Cole Palmer.

Former Blues legend Marcel Desailly has issued a stark warning that Cole Palmer may consider his options if he loses belief in the club’s long-term project.

Cole Palmer has been a standout performer since his move from Manchester City in 2023, but his influence has dipped this season amid injury issues and growing frustration. His muted reaction after scoring against Brentford only intensified speculation about his mindset.

Desailly did not hide his concerns, saying: “If Cole Palmer decides to move away from Chelsea then that’s his business, but I just want him to respect the club, because they are the ones who have given him the tools to become the player he is now.”

He added: “I would love him to stay at Stamford Bridge because he’s got a key role in the team, even if Enzo Maresca used him in various positions.”

Desailly believes Palmer is craving a clearer project and greater stability as Chelsea continue to battle inconsistency and off-field uncertainty. He also stressed that the England star must first return to full fitness and rediscover his best form.

“He wants more stability and a system that’s built for him, but he still needs to fully recover from his groin injury and get back to full fitness,” Desailly said. “His recent performances speak for themselves, so he needs to stay humble and come back into the team to help the club.”

Most significantly, Desailly delivered his blunt warning to Chelsea’s hierarchy: “The question is whether he feels like Chelsea are going to win the Premier League in the next two seasons. If he doesn’t, I’m sure he will ask for a transfer request to a club that will build a system around him.”

For Chelsea, the message is clear, keeping Palmer happy may now depend as much on ambition and direction as it does on performances on the pitch.