Manchester United look likely to have a quiet month in terms of incomings and outgoings, despite being linked with a wealth of talent in the January transfer window
Adam Wharton stands with his hands on his hips
Adam Wharton is thought to be Manchester United's priority(Image: Getty Images)
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It's been a slow month for Manchester United in terms of utilising the January transfer window, as the Red Devils look more likely to bolster their ranks over the summer. But that hasn't prevented the rumour mill from churning.
While there was speculation that Michael Carrick could dip into the market to give his team the best chance of European qualification in the second-half of the season, it appears now as though the interim head coach will instead utilise the crop of players he inherited from Ruben Amorim.
Adam Wharton update
A report from the I suggests that Manchester United have placed Adam Wharton at the top of their midfield shortlist for the summer transfer window. Casemiro is set to part ways with Old Trafford come season's end, leaving the Red Devils to scour the market for a suitable replacement going forward.
While there has been speculation that United could re-open their interest in Carlos Baleba, after chasing the Brighton talent last summer only to find his £100million price tag too hot to handle, it now appears as though they will chase Wharton as a priority.
Crystal Palace are expected to demand between £60m and £70m for the 21-year-old central midfielder, given he is tied down until 2029 and is only just approaching the peak of his professional development. However, United are said to see the star as a worthy investment as they look to build on an ageing engine room.
It will come as a major blow to Palace should Manchester United be successful in their pursuit, given they have already lost Marc Guehi this month to Manchester City and Jean-Philippe Mateta's future with the club has been cast into speculation. Meanwhile, Oliver Glasner will also leave Selhurst Park come season's end, leaving the Eagles to scour the market for a new head coach.
Kobbie Mainoo future
While Kobbie Mainoo saw game-time limited under Amorim, it appears as though Carrick sees him as a big part of United's long-term plans. The 20-year-old centre-mid has made just 13 league appearances this season as a result of stiff competition, and was linked with a loan move to Napoli earlier this month as a result.
Kobbie Mainoo walks
Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly set for a contract extension(Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)
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However, it is now reported that United are looking to extend his contract until 2031, as Carrick starts to afford him more consistent time on the pitch to develop as a player. Sky Sports News suggest that the Red Devils are looking to reward Mainoo with a lucrative deal which reflects his importance to the club, as it is thought that he will play an important role in the years to come.
An Olympiakos investment
As per the Mail, United consider Christos Mouzakitis as a medium-term investment as they look to enhance the centre of their midfield. The 19-year-old Greek has impressed with Olympiakos since bursting through the youth ranks of the club in 2024.
Given his current club would prefer to retain him until the end of 2025/26, it could be another deal to revisit in the summer.
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