Manchester United must accelerate their efforts to bolster their squad with less than a week left before the transfer window slams shut.
Thomas Tuchel has made the bold decision to pick Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton over Kobbie Mainoo for the England squad that will face Andorra and Serbia in the World Cup qualifiers next month.
Manager Ruben Amorim entered the summer desperate for an athletic midfielder, and the opening three games have brutally exposed just how fragile his system looks without one.
Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes were paired together in both Premier League fixtures, but the duo offered little in terms of defensive steel or balance.
Mainoo could have been an option, but Amorim views him as a direct rival for Fernandes’ number eight role rather than a natural partner.
We believe United should be throwing everything at signing Wharton, who looks tailor-made to complement Fernandes in midfield.
The 21-year-old is a technically gifted central midfielder who brings a lot of energy and control to the centre of the park.
Groin surgery sidelined him for several weeks last season, but he returned stronger and brimming with confidence.
He averaged 1.36 interceptions and 6.92 ball recoveries per game in the Premier League last campaign.
The £39 million-rated midfielder also excelled in helping his side progress the ball forward by carving out an average of two chances per game.
He is known for his ability to dictate tempo, recycling possession and unlocking attacks.
Mainoo has featured only once this season and has expressed his desire to leave on loan in search of minutes.
United are not interested in parting ways with their academy star and want him to stay and fight for his place.
Signing Wharton will be a big statement of intent from INEOS.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Fotmob.com