Jason Wilcox has the unenviable job of solving Manchester United’s midfield conundrum next summer, but the decision on which player to sign might be made for him.
Having overhauled the attacking department in 2025, Manchester United’s focus will be on the midfield in 2026, and there is plenty of debate over who the best solution could be.
United have been linked with countless midfielders over the past few months, chief amongst them Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest.
Anderson stood out against United with a domineering performance, running rings around Ruben Amorim’s first-choice pairing in midfield and thrusting himself past Carlos Baleba in the pecking order.
But there could be a new top contender after this weekend…
England midfielder Adam Wharton during the Conference League match between Crystal Palace and AEK Larnaca FC.
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Manchester United will have a close eye on Adam Wharton
Baleba has taken a back step as United’s target this season, with consistently poor performances and the suggestion that he couldn’t handle the links to United mentally.
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However, Anderson might also not be the top choice for long, as this weekend sees Adam Wharton with the chance to shine in front of Amorim and the recruitment staff.
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United haven’t beaten Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in years, and Wharton has been a regularly impressive feature of the Eagles’ team over the past couple of seasons.
Wharton has an excellent chance to shine against a poor United midfield, which really struggled on Monday night against Everton.
With a top-class performance, Wharton may swing the transfer plans for 2026 back in his favour and leave Anderson as the second choice for the time being. Jason Wilcox will surely be at the game, and so it is a big audition for the Blackburn-born midfielder.
Manchester United and Adam Wharton latest transfer updates
As a midfielder, few are better options for United than Wharton, and his consistency in the Premier League proves this.
Roy Keane has identified Wharton as a top midfielder, and it is no surprise to see him among the top options.
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Adam Wharton playing against Albania
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Wharton has responded to United links this season, showcasing that he is a very mature player and isn’t being overwhelmed by being a target for one of the world’s biggest clubs.
While he will cost a lot next summer, United are fully aware of Wharton’s price, and it likely falls into the same bracket as Anderson and Baleba.
Wharton would be a great signing, and we fully expect to be impressed by his performance this Sunday.