Former Chelsea defender William Gallas has compared Cole Palmer to Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane, saying the young midfielder has quickly become the heart of Chelsea’s squad. Speaking in an interview with Prime Casino, Gallas explained that Palmer’s role in the team reminds him of how Zidane was the key figure for the French national team, stressing that Palmer’s influence at Chelsea is undeniable and he needs to be protected.

“Cole Palmer reminds me of Zidane with France, in terms of his value to the team,” Gallas said. “Everyone knew Zidane was the main man and you see the same thing with Palmer at Chelsea. It just comes naturally to him, and that’s why he must be protected.”

Palmer left Manchester City for Chelsea during the 2023 summer transfer window after struggling to get regular playing time under Pep Guardiola. Since then, he has cemented his place as a vital part of Chelsea’s attack. Despite not having the most impressive year so far, with only three goals to his name in 2025, the England international played a crucial role in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League final victory, providing two assists as they beat Real Betis 4-1.

The management of Turkish giants Galatasaray has reportedly told Victor Osimhen and his camp to speed up talks about his future and not delay their response beyond early July. This was revealed by a well-known football analyst Serkan Korkmaz during a recent update on Osimhen’s situation on Kontraspor’s YouTube channel.

According to Korkmaz, Galatasaray made it clear they don’t want the negotiations to drag endlessly. He explained, “Good news has come in for Galatasaray supporters. The club has asked Osimhen and his team to make a decision by the start of July. They want clarity on the situation soon.”

It’s understood that Galatasaray remains interested and hasn’t pulled out of the race, but they have now set a rough deadline for talks to conclude. Osimhen recently completed his loan spell with Galatasaray, which ended a few weeks ago. The Super Eagles striker, who initially joined from Napoli, is currently on summer break.

Former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has shared his thoughts on Victor Osimhen’s next career move, saying the final decision belongs to the striker alone. Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli permanently this summer after a successful loan spell at Galatasaray, where he won the league, League Cup, and the Golden Boot.

Osimhen has already rejected offers from Saudi side Al-Hilal, making it clear he wants to continue playing in Europe. Speaking to Sport 247, Okocha stressed that Osimhen must make the choice himself.

“The decision is his to make. Whether it works out or not, he has to own it,” Okocha said. He added that no one else should dictate Osimhen’s future, saying the striker should do what is best for himself and his family.