Chelsea are already three games away from nightmare Cole Palmer scenario

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola only handed a Premier League debut to Palmer in the final game of last season.

But the England Under-21 international is now being touted as a potential first-team regular for the champions this term after scoring in the Community Shield win over Liverpool.

And Palmer has already shown that he has the quality to make the step up to the Premier League, with a string of impressive performances in pre-season.

He scored in the win over Club America and also set up a goal for Erling Haaland in the victory over Bayern Munich.

Guardiola has been impressed with Palmer's progress and has tipped him to have a big season.

"He is a player who has a lot of potential," said Guardiola.

"He is still young, but he has already shown that he can play at this level."

Palmer's emergence is a timely boost for Chelsea, who are facing a nightmare scenario up front.

Romelu Lukaku has returned to Inter Milan on loan, while Timo Werner has joined RB Leipzig.

That leaves Chelsea with Kai Havertz as their only recognised striker.

Havertz is a talented player, but he is not a natural goalscorer.

If Chelsea are to challenge for the Premier League title this season, they need to sign a new striker.

And they could do worse than to take a gamble on Palmer.

The England Under-21 international is still raw, but he has all the attributes to become a top player.

He is quick, skilful and has an eye for goal.

Palmer would also be a relatively cheap option, with City likely to demand around £20million for his services.

Chelsea should not hesitate to make a move for Palmer.

He is a player with huge potential and could be the solution to their striker crisis.