David Moyes targets Ethan Wheatley as the Toffees look to replicate the James Garner deal, capitalizing on the young striker’s uncertain future in Michael Carrick’s squad.
With Wheatley on his way out, do Man Utd need a new striker?
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Manchester United's preseason has seen the introduction of many academy players into the first team with the likes of Shea Lacey, Harry Amass and Jack Fletcher gaining substantial minutes under Michael Carrick.
With the 2026/27 Premier League season fast approaching, United's summer window has slowed down after the arrivals of Andrey Santos, Karl Darlow and Youri Tielemans. United's departures have included Casemiro to Inter Miami and academy graduate Tyler Fredericson to Lusanne-Sport.
Another exit is reportedly in the works as Everton prepare to make a move to sign a United academy graduate following in the footsteps of James Garner who confirmed a move to Merseyside in 2022.
The summer has been underwhelming in terms of sales for United with the confirmation of Rasmus Hojlund's stay at Napoli being the only sale so far. The striker department at Old Trafford could see even more change according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Everton Set To Approach Man Utd For Wheatley
Fabrizio Romano has reported that David Moyes' Everton are preparing to approach Man United for Ethan Wheatley after a series of loan spells in the English Football Leagues.
Last season saw the 20-year-old spend the first six months on loan with Northampton Town where he scored three times in League One. The January transfer window saw Wheatley move to Bradford City for the remainder of the season where he featured twelve times but failed to score or assist.
Romano took to X to confirm the Toffees' interest in the youngster.
He revealed, "Everton are interested in Man United talented striker Ethan Wheatley.
"Everton are preparing a proposal to make formal approach with Man United soon for the 20 year old forward."
Wheatley made four first team appearances for United becoming the 250th academy graduate for the club, but he has struggled to maintain his place in the first team amid United's striker struggles.
The signing of Benjamin Sesko last summer and use of Bryan Mbeumo as a number nine leaves doubts over where Wheatley can fit into Michael Carrick's squad.
The Cameroonian forward stakes his claim for a central role after a clinical double in Sweden, leaving Michael Carrick with a welcome tactical dilemma ahead of the new season.roundtable.ioBryan Mbeumo Opens Up On Preferred Position After Brace vs Atletico Madrid
The Cameroonian forward stakes his claim for a central role after a clinical double in Sweden, leaving Michael Carrick with a welcome tactical dilemma ahead of the new season.
Do Man Utd Need Another Striker?
The recent injury to Benjamin Sesko has raised concerns over whether United need to look into the striker market this summer despite the midfield being the clear priority.
Confirmation of Champions League football next season means United's squad depth will undoubtably be pushed to its limits and the introduction of a striker could provide the necessary backup and support for Sesko.
The summer window has already seen available, experienced strikers make moves like Danny Welbeck to Chelsea and Robert Lewandowski to Chicago Fire. Meanwhile, Mbeumo continues to be Untied's backup striker under Carrick.
With Wheatley's exit looking closer, United may have to shift their focus from the midfield to the front line.