Cole Palmer tipped to force Manchester United move by Emile Heskey

Former England striker Emile Heskey believes Chelsea forward Cole Palmer could look to force a transfer to his boyhood club Manchester United.

The prolific attacker has established himself as a key figure at Stamford Bridge following his high-profile switch from Manchester City.

However, speculation persists regarding the youngster’s long-term future amid unconfirmed reports that he is finding it difficult to settle in London.

Returning to Manchester roots

Heskey is convinced that the Wythenshawe-born playmaker possesses the quality to represent any of Europe’s elite sides.

The former Liverpool forward specifically highlighted the emotional pull of Old Trafford for the lifelong United supporter.

“I could see someone like [Palmer] in a Barcelona shirt. The way that he plays, the fans would love him,”

Heskey told OLBG.

“But then again, when you’re a kid and you’re growing up, there are things that you dream of doing as a footballer. You dream of playing for your boyhood club.”

“So Cole will have dreams too, possibly to play for United, so I wouldn’t put it past him if he did turn up there and they did take him on.”

The Fernandes factor

Discussions over a potential future transfer have led to inevitable comparisons with current United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Heskey questioned whether the Red Devils could afford to lose their influential Portuguese midfielder to make room for the England international.

“The reality is that with his ability, his goals, his assists, his general play, he’d have a lot of takers,”

Heskey added that while selling to rebuild is a possibility, it would be a risky strategy for the Old Trafford hierarchy.

“For United I think the fans would really kick off if he were to be sold, if I’m honest with you, and then who are you going to bring in to really replace him?”