Adam Wharton leans towards Liverpool as Real Madrid enter the race, leaving Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim searching for answers
This summer transfer window for Manchester United is about more than players coming and going; it is about addressing real weaknesses in the squad. The club’s midfield has looked unbalanced for some time, and even with an experienced player like Casemiro, securing the back line remains a constant challenge. Because of his age and form, the Brazilian can no longer provide the athletic coverage required for the Premier League’s pace.
The team urgently need a new defensive midfielder. He would strengthen the defence and give Bruno Fernandes more freedom. Ruben Amorim wants a midfielder who can screen the defence and progress the ball. Earlier reports revealed that Manchester United are planning a January move for Wharton, which is why United fans are keeping an eye on the possibility of a deal.
Wharton’s situation and transfer confusion
There has been a recent twist in Wharton’s situation, and it will not please United fans. DaveOCKOP.com, via TEAMtalk, has reported that the English midfielder is pushing for a move to the reigning Premier League champions, Liverpool. Spanish giants Real Madrid have also expressed interest in the 21-year-old. This will be alarming for Amorim and co., as the Red Devils have tracked Wharton for some time. Reports revealed that Real Madrid are looking at a January move for Wharton as well, which makes the competition even tougher. Now, Amorim must find a way to convince Wharton to choose Old Trafford over Liverpool or Madrid.
United’s approach and discussion of options
Manchester United have been keeping tabs on Adam Wharton right from the summer.
Manchester United have been keeping tabs on Adam Wharton right from the summer.
From Manchester United’s perspective, choosing Wharton makes complete sense. His range of passing, two-touch and one-touch play, and ability to break lines could be the answer to United’s biggest problems. The team need a midfielder who can keep the ball secure and avoid only sideways passes. He must also move the ball quickly from defence to attack and deliver it into dangerous positions for players such as Bruno Fernandes. Wharton fits this need because his composed passing can break opposition pressing. United’s midfield has long missed this quality.
The situation is not simple, though. Liverpool and Real Madrid both offer Champions League football, and their squads look balanced and stable. That is why United’s chances look weak, and reports suggest Wharton prefers Liverpool. Crystal Palace value him at around £70m, which creates a huge hurdle for any club.
If United fail to land Wharton, Amorim has options. Sporting Lisbon’s Morten Hjulmand, whom Amorim has coached before, is renowned for his tackling and discipline and could potentially be available for around £50m. Lille’s 17-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi offers a strong future investment but remains a long-term project. United tried to sign Carlos Baleba last summer, but Brighton’s high demands blocked the deal. Amorim could revisit that option.
Our hearts say the club need Wharton most because he can bring balance and energy back to the team. However, our heads say Amorim must create a clear plan soon, or Liverpool and Madrid will take the solution to United’s biggest weakness.