Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is quickly emerging as one of the most sought-after young talents in European football. With his popularity soaring, Manchester United is also interested in signing the 21-year-old midfield prodigy.
After seven rounds of the Premier League this season, the Red Devils are temporarily seventh in the standings. Summer signing Benjamin Šeško finally found the net at the end of September following a slow start. Despite the solid performances of new signings like Šeško and Jeremy Doku, manager Ruben Amorim’s team has yet to develop chemistry, and the Portuguese coach is under constant pressure.
United had shown interest in Brighton’s Moises Caicedo during the summer window, but the Seagulls’ £100 million asking price deterred them. Clearly, Amorim’s coaching staff believes the midfield still needs reinforcement. Meanwhile, captain Bruno Fernandes has been plagued by rumors linking him to the Saudi Pro League, and at 31, his future remains uncertain in the next two transfer windows.
As a result, United has identified Wharton as an ideal target. It is reported that the club is willing to pay £60 million for the English talent, but this is likely below Crystal Palace’s expected price. Palace has set a £150 million price tag for Wharton, who is under contract until 2029, giving them absolute leverage in negotiations. Although the player is satisfied with his current situation, an offer from a top club is ultimately tempting.
It is understood that Amorim “highly rates” Wharton. For United to push through the deal, they need to trim their squad in the winter window. Casemiro is set to leave soon, but his age and salary do not meet Crystal Palace’s needs.
Kobbie Mainoo
Once a highly anticipated young star, Mainoo requested a loan move in the summer window due to limited game time. After his request to stay was rejected, the 20-year-old may seek a permanent transfer in the winter. To secure a spot in England’s World Cup squad next year, the English midfielder is in desperate need of regular game time.
Joshua Zirkzee
The Dutch international was highly anticipated when he joined United last year, but the 24-year-old has failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford. Deployed as a center-forward on multiple occasions, he has delivered mediocre performances—though he is more suited to the No. 10 role. AC Milan and Juventus have kept tabs on him. While Zirkzee does not play in the same position as Wharton, he could boost Crystal Palace’s attacking firepower behind Jean-Philippe Mateta. It is reported that the player has told United he hopes to leave in the winter window to fight for a World Cup spot.
Packaging Zirkzee and Mainoo together would be a reasonable deal. However, if only one of them is included, Crystal Palace will still demand additional cash compensation.
