Manchester United are very much eyeing Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as a key target to bolster their midfield at this stage of the transfer window.
Manager Michael Carrick is on the lookout for a left-footed controlling midfielder following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte's injury. Although the Red Devils have already secured the signings of Youri Tielemans and Andre Santos, Wharton’s unique abilities in ball progression and dictating the tempo could provide much-needed depth.
Main obstacles for Manchester United
- Asking price: Crystal Palace are reportedly demanding around €100 million for their star player, which has made United’s hierarchy wary about the financial viability of the deal, especially with other positions also needing investment.
- Chelsea’s aggression: The Blues have rekindled their interest and are actively negotiating. Wharton is on Xabi Alonso’s radar; however, Chelsea will have to unload a few players before committing to a transfer.
- Real Madrid factor: The Spanish giants have been keeping an eye on Wharton’s development and could join the fray if their transfer priorities shift.
Wharton fits perfectly into Carrick’s vision, especially with his ability to evade pressing and break lines with pinpoint passes. However, United are not willing to get into a bidding war that would see Crystal Palace maintain a sky-high asking price as competition heats up.
