Manchester United’s search for a new defensive midfielder has taken a fresh twist. After missing out on Brighton’s rising star Carlos Baleba, the Red Devils are now reported to be prioritizing a move for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton ahead of the summer transfer deadline.
United Fail in Baleba Pursuit
Newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim has been vocal about his desire to strengthen United’s midfield with young and energetic talent. One of his earliest targets was Carlos Baleba, who has impressed at Brighton & Hove Albion with his physicality and ball-winning ability.
Unfortunately for United, Brighton flatly rejected their approach. The Seagulls, known for their strict transfer stance, refused to entertain any offers for Baleba, leaving Manchester United with no choice but to shift their focus elsewhere.
Adam Wharton Emerges as Priority Target
According to a report from talkSPORT, United’s recruitment team has now set their sights on Adam Wharton, the highly-rated Crystal Palace midfielder. At just 20 years old, Wharton has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising young players.
Over the past two seasons, he has become a crucial figure in Palace’s midfield, known for his composure, passing accuracy, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. His consistency and maturity have not gone unnoticed, and Amorim is said to believe that Wharton has the potential to match, if not surpass, Baleba’s impact in the long run.
A Difficult Deal to Secure
Despite United’s growing interest, negotiations are not expected to be straightforward. Crystal Palace, who view Wharton as an integral part of their project, are reportedly reluctant to let him go this late in the transfer window.
The Eagles are wary of losing such a key player without having enough time to secure a proper replacement. With the market closing soon, Palace are determined to hold on to their prized asset and will only consider a sale if United come up with an irresistible offer.
Transfer Fee Could Be a Major Obstacle
Even if Palace were to soften their stance, Manchester United would need to dig deep financially. Reports suggest that Palace have slapped a price tag of around £80 million on Wharton, reflecting both his importance to the team and his long-term potential.
For United, this poses a significant dilemma. While Amorim is keen on strengthening his midfield before the window shuts, the club also has to carefully manage its transfer budget after heavy spending in recent seasons.
A Midfield Battle on Deadline Day?
As the transfer window draws to a close, Manchester United’s pursuit of Adam Wharton could become one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer sagas. The Red Devils are desperate to add quality and depth to their midfield, while Palace remain equally determined to hold on to their star.
Whether United are willing to meet the £80 million valuation could ultimately decide if Wharton makes the move to Old Trafford or stays put at Selhurst Park. For now, one thing is clear: Manchester United are not giving up their hunt for a defensive midfielder, and Adam Wharton is firmly at the top of their shortlist.
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