Manchester United’s decision not to pursue Cole Palmer looks wise after horrendous display against Forest | OneFootball

Manchester United were linked with a sensational move for Chelsea’s Cole Palmer earlier this year, but they have since distanced themselves from the prospect.

On the evidence of Monday afternoon at Stamford Bridge, United’s recruitment team may have made the right call.

Palmer struggled in Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge, a result that leaves their hopes of European qualification hanging by a thread.

The nadir arrived when Matz Sels saved his penalty, a moment that encapsulated a performance largely devoid of the quality that once made him one of the division’s most exciting attacking midfielders.

Losing eight of his 10 ground duels and managing just one key pass, Palmer was anonymous for large stretches and unable to influence a match Chelsea desperately needed to win.

The Blues are ninth in the table, 16 points behind United in third.

The wider context makes the performance more concerning. Palmer has struggled for much of this campaign due to a chronic groin injury.

Many of his performances have lacked the game-changing impact that triggered his rise to prominence in his first two seasons with the club.

He has scored just ten goals in all competitions this season, down from 18 the previous term and 25 the year before.

United had briefly been linked with a move worth around £150 million, although Palmer rejected the rumours, saying he laughs when he sees them.

United have arrived at the same conclusion.