26 December 2024

former Chelsea Defender William Gallas has identified La Liga sides Real Madrid and Barcelona as the only teams capable of luring Cole Palmer away from the Stamford Bridge outfit.

Palmer, 22, has proven to be a transformative signing for the Blues since arriving in a deal worth up to £42.5m from Manchester City in 2023. He has helped his side emerge as Premier League title contenders this season.

So far this season, the left-footed attacking midfielder has made all 16 league appearances for Chelsea. He found the back of the opposition net 11 times and registered six assists in 1,392 minutes of play for his club's first team.

Recently speaking to betting site Prime Casino, Disadvantages He offered his thoughts on Palmer's future with the player's current contract expiring in June 2033. He explained (h/t Metro):

“At the moment, I think only Real Madrid and Barcelona can tempt Cole Palmer away from Chelsea. I think he will thrive playing football in Spain. It could be three seasons down the line, but I think Chelsea fans have to hope neither of them shines.” “These clubs will come to him anytime soon.”

Palmer, who won the Premier League Young Player of the Year award for the 2023-24 season, is likely to feature on Sunday (December 22). He is expected to start in Chelsea's Premier League match against Everton at Goodison Park.

Chelsea star reveals interest from Aston Villa

Blues striker Nicholas Jackson has revealed he was close to joining Aston Villa During the 2022-23 season. The Senegalese said (h/t Tribal Football):

“When Unai (Emery) left Villarreal, he wanted me to go to Aston Villa, but I was injured. I had to go, but I had a hamstring injury. We went there, they checked me and said I needed an extra month, which they did.” They wanted me now, if they wanted me in a week or two, I wasn't ready, so they had to cancel the transfer, and when I came back, I was very angry.

After registering 13 goals and five assists in 38 appearances for Villarreal in the 2022-23 season, Jackson moved to the Blues in 2023, worth £32m.

Jackson, 23, has started 54 of 60 matches in all competitions for Enzo Maresca's side so far. The right-footed No.9 has scored 26 goals and recorded nine assists in 4,755 minutes of play for the Blues.