Manchester United view Adam Wharton as ‘too similar’ to Koby Mainu, but could still pursue him if they choose to sign three midfielders instead of two this summer.
United are keen to strengthen their midfield and are expected to make Ederson their first signing of the Michael Carrick era after agreeing a £38m deal with Atalanta. The 26-year-old Brazilian has shone in Serie A over the past four years and will bring further quality and depth to United’s midfield.
However, Ederson will not be the only midfield addition this summer, with Casemiro leaving United when his contract expires in June and United need more personnel for Champions League football. The Reds are investigating the market for a number of other targets, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliott Anderson and Brighton’s Carlos Baleva.
Wharton is also on United’s wishlist, but the Telegraph reports that the club believe he has a similar profile to Mainu and may therefore avoid signing him. Although Wharton’s progressive passing has been praised, he is not thought to be a natural partner for Maynou in United’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Carrick.
Liverpool and Chelsea are thought to be tracking Wharton’s situation among other clubs, but despite speculation over his future, his biggest focus at the moment is undoubtedly celebrating Crystal Palace’s Conference League title.
The 22-year-old shone as Palace defeated Spanish opponents Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, clinching the European third-tier trophy and guaranteeing them a place in next season’s Europa League. Wharton’s outstanding performance earned him the UEFA Player of the Year award for his contribution.
Wharton then spoke about how he plans to celebrate Palace’s success. Wharton has “big” plans after missing the celebrations following the FA Cup final win over Manchester City 12 months ago due to a head injury.
He told TNT Sport: “It’s going to be important. We missed the FA Cup last year so we have two celebrations to get back to. Now I have to do a doping test so I hope I can drink beer and alcohol soon!”
Oliver Glasner, who was rumored to be vacant at United before Michael Carrick’s permanent transfer, has put in a fantastic performance for Palace.
Since arriving at Selhurst Park in February 2024, Glasner has guided the Eagles to three silver medals, including the FA Cup and Conference League.
Wharton paid tribute to the Austrian, adding: “The changes he has made in two-and-a-half years are unbelievable. It’s unbelievable. He’s got to be one of the best managers Palace has ever had. He’s brought about a huge change in the way the club looks at competitions now.”
Even if United are unable to secure a contract for Wharton, it is widely expected that he will attract considerable interest from other countries. The Blackburn-born midfielder is regarded as one of the most talented players in his position in world football today.
