Manchester United have been linked to Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as a potential target in 2026.
With Casemiro’s contract expiring, Manuel Ugarte out of favour and Kobbie Mainoo open to leaving, Manchester United will be in the market for a new midfielder or two in 2026.
Ineos have had success shopping within the Premier League this year with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo impressing after their summer moves, so a new midfielder could follow a similar path.
United have been linked to Adam Wharton alongside Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba as potential Premier League signings.
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Adam Wharton playing against Albania for England.
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
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Wharton has responded to United links and remained fairly quiet on his future, and now his agent has been asked about his upcoming plans.
Adam Wharton lining up against West Ham
Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images
Adam Wharton’s agent on upcoming transfer ‘plan’
Since his move from Blackburn to Crystal Palace in 2024, Adam Wharton has become a Premier League star and an England regular.
Wharton’s agent, James Featherstone, was asked about his client’s future amid links to United. Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: “We’ve got a plan. He’s only 21 right? I have to check myself to remember that every now and then.
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Infographic of Adam Wharton match stats vs Manchester United.
Infographic of Adam Wharton match stats vs Manchester United.
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“We have a plan and it doesn’t have to be achieved yesterday, today, this minute or moment.
“So he has his in-game, in-season goals and targets, development and everything else. He’s got to do his bit and the rest will look after itself in a very structured, calm and sensible way.
Featherstone revealed that it was always the plan to get Wharton into the England side, and he has achieved that at a very early age.
However, he also spoke about the desire for Wharton to play in the Champions League.
“We spoke about shooting for the stars. Let’s play for England. How do you get there? Personally I think to play for England you have to play Champions League, and to play Champions League you have to play in one of the top teams in one of the top leagues,” Featherstone said.
Wharton admits he wants Champions League football, and to achieve that, he may want to push for an exit at Palace.
READ MORE: Difference-making Man Utd transfer target Adam Wharton could be just like Red Devils legend, claims talent scout
However, United are no closer to making a Champions League return with the Red Devils currently in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
If United’s pursuit of Wharton hinges on playing in Europe, Ineos might end up missing out on his signature to another footballing giant.
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