Manchester United have been how told they can beat Liverpool to the signing of Adam Wharton, according to Samuel Luckhurst.
The Red Devils have made strengthening their midfield options the main priority for the upcoming summer transfer window, with Casemiro leaving at the end of his contract and question marks over the long-term future of all of Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes.
INEOS have made Premier League experience a key factor to consider for any of their top targets, which has put the Crystal Palace star among their top candidates, but they face stiff competition for his signature.
Man Utd and Liverpool Want Adam Wharton
Adam Wharton in England training gear
It's been widely reported that Man Utd have made Elliot Anderson their top midfield target, but Manchester City are believed to be leading the race for his signature as he wants to challenge for trophies on a regular basis.
But United have other targets, including Wharton, although they also face a battle to convince him to join too, with Liverpool also understood to be interested, and the 22-year-old reportedly preferring a move to Anfield.
However, it has now emerged that while it may be his preference, he isn't against moving elsewhere as his top priority is playing in the Champions League, which is not guaranteed at Liverpool currently.
Man Utd currently sit third in the Premier League, three points clear of fourth and five clear of Liverpool in fifth, who currently occupy the final Champions League spot. But they are just one point ahead of Chelsea, and have some difficult fixtures to overcome between now and the end of the season.
Wharton Would Be Ideal Midfield Signing
Adam Wharton playing for England vs Albania
Man Utd know that they will likely need at least two midfield signings in the summer, and Wharton could well come in as the marquee name.
His quality on the ball is undeniable and it's clear that he is ready to make the step up to play at a higher level. He's not the complete package yet by any stretch of the imagination, although he has been described as 'elite', but what he has is what Man Utd are missing, and he could be the missing piece to the jigsaw.
There are some glaring similarities in his style compared to current interim boss Michael Carrick, and we saw how successful he was during his years at Old Trafford. United must get Champions League football to have a chance of the deal, but they're in a better place than most as it stands.