Cole Palmer appears to have suggested that he is in favour of Chelsea signing Kobbie Mainoo after suggestions that Manchester United could lose their midfield star this year. The Blues are reportedly at the front of the queue to act if a shock exit does occur.

Mainoo, it is said, has been left unhappy with United's latest contract offers as they attempt to tie him down to a fresh long-term deal. His last extension came as a 17-year-old in February 2023.

Now, with two-and-a-half years left to run on his current deal, but terms that do not see him rewarded as a key member of the side, it has been claimed that Chelsea are monitoring his situation and would act to bring him in. Although nothing is expected in January, it is a fluid situation.

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Palmer, who played with Mainoo for England over the summer whilst at Euro 2024 in Germany, looks to have signalled his stance. He has been spotted liking an Instagram post by the popular account TheSecretScout, which reports the news and asks if it would be a good move for Mainoo.

Born in Stockport, Mainoo is a childhood United fan, like Palmer, who is from Wythenshawe. Chelsea landed Palmer in a heavily criticised 2024 summer transfer, though, and have been thoroughly rewarded for it in the 18 months since.

They are currently lacking in midfield depth under Enzo Maresca, with Romeo Lavia struggling with injury once again. Both Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu are on loan and could be recalled to add more options and energy.

United, on the other hand, turned to Mainoo from the start on Sunday away to Liverpool. He impressed alongside Manuel Ugarte in a fighting and unexpected 2-2 draw.

Mainoo has established himself as a central figure in United's plans since making his full debut just over 12 months ago. Deemed unsellable by United over the summer as one of a select group that Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe would not entertain letting go, it has been written that even he and Alejandro Garnacho are not untouchable anymore due to a problematic financial situation.