Manchester United is planning a surprising move to sign Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. They want to change their midfield by letting go of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro. United tried to strengthen their midfield in the summer but failed to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton. Now, they are focusing on Wharton instead.
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| Image Source: BBC |
The club spent a lot of money in the summer, bringing in players like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Senne Lammens. They want to improve their performance after finishing 15th last season. This season, they are currently 10th in the Premier League after winning 2-0 against Sunderland before the international break.
Ruben Amorim, the manager, wanted to add a new midfielder but could not. The team has had problems controlling games mainly because the midfield combination of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro has not been working well. Casemiro’s contract ends this season, and both he and Mainoo may leave Old Trafford soon.
Adam Wharton is 21 years old and moved from Blackburn to Crystal Palace in 2024. He has quickly become one of the best at moving the ball forward in the Premier League. Wharton has impressed many clubs like Liverpool, Manchester City, and Real Madrid, but Manchester United wants to act fast and sign him. They are preparing a £60 million offer for him, however, Crystal Palace may ask for more.
Wharton played a big role when Palace won the FA Cup for the first time in their history in May. He also helped them win the Community Shield by beating Liverpool. Wharton easily adapted to Crystal Palace’s three-defender system, which Amorim likes for his team too.
Kobbie Mainoo was important for England at Euro 2024 but has had little playing time for United this season. He has played only 113 minutes in five substitute appearances. Mainoo wanted to leave in the summer for more game time but could not because United did not sign new midfielders. He may leave in January to improve his chances of making the England squad for the 2026 World Cup. Napoli could be his next club, where other former Manchester United players like Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund are now playing.
Casemiro also looks likely to leave soon as his contract runs out. United can extend it for another year but may prefer to move on. Casemiro had a good start at United and helped the club win the EFL Cup, but his recent form has been criticized by fans.
In summary, Manchester United wants to improve its midfield by signing Adam Wharton. At the same time, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to leave the club. This move shows United is trying to fix a key problem area in their team.