Manchester United could look to massively bolster their midfield ranks in the coming months, with a move for Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton being in their sights - with the Red Devils being 'huge admirers' of the central midfield star as an alternative option to their other transfer targets.
The report by The Athletic reporter Laurie Whitwell suggests that with United having stepped back from their pursuit of Brighton star Carlos Baleba two weeks ago amid the Seagulls' refusal to sell their star midfielder, it has seen the Red Devils turn to potential alternatives.
Report: Man Utd 'Admire' Adam Wharton, Though Deal is Not Close
Adam Wharton in action for Crystal Palace
Wharton is one of those, having shot to prominence in the Premier League for Crystal Palace after his transfer from Championship outfit Blackburn Rovers just 18 months ago. The England international, who has been included in Thomas Tuchel's squad for the upcoming qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia, is admired by Old Trafford chiefs, and he could be a player who comes into their midfield in the coming years - though any interest is not advanced as yet.
Any move would have to be less than the £115million price tag that Brighton have set for Baleba, with the Seagulls using their sale of Moises Caicedo to Chelsea for a similar price in 2023 as a measure - and Wharton has been touted for the Selhurst Park exit at a fee of £100million.
However, Mainoo has been left out of their two Premier League games so far this season, and with the Carrington academy graduate asking to be sent out on loan earlier on Friday, that could open the door for another midfield addition at the Theatre of Dreams.
Wharton has piqued the interest of various clubs across England and Europe with his punchy performances in central midfield, wowing scouts and fans alike with his vision, passing range, strength in the tackle and ability to keep the game simple for his attacking teammates to benefit from.
United could certainly do with midfield upgrades if Mainoo leaves, and they could do a lot worse than signing the 21-year-old star, who already has 38 appearances at Premier League level, as well as youth caps for England.
Being labelled as a 'joy to play with' by former Palace teammate Eberechi Eze, his chance creation from deep would allow the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko to up their output in front of goals.
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