Manchester United had obvious reasons to look for a defensive midfielder in the summer 2025 transfer window. Casemiro’s performance had declined, and his lack of pace, together with fitness problems, raised questions about the strength of the midfield. The Brazilian struggled with injuries at times and, on many occasions, covered for others, which upset the team’s balance.
At the same time, Ruben Amorim has made it clear that he does not consider Kobbie Mainoo completely reliable in this role on his own. Mainoo has the ability, but Amorim believes he still needs to improve his positioning and decision-making. Meanwhile, reports revealed that United seriously pursued a late deal for Adam Wharton in the final days of the summer, but the market situation and valuation prevented it.
Journalist Mark Brus has created a new headline. In his Daily Briefing, he wrote that a well-placed source told him several big clubs could show serious interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton in January. Palace have set a price tag of £100m, but United could be back in the race in the winter window. Palace boss Steve Parish tried to portray the summer as balanced, with Eze the only major departure while Wharton and Guehi stayed.
Yet Brus also warned that this stability could prove temporary. Guehi’s contract is running down, and Liverpool are already confident about preparing to sign him on a free. Wharton’s form has been excellent, and his name continues to be in the headlines. Reports also say that Real Madrid are planning to bid for Manchester United target Adam Wharton, making the competition even tougher.
“I have just had an interesting WhatsApp exchange with a very well-connected source who’s expecting strong interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton this January.
“In the end, Eagles co-owner and chairman Steve Parish will have to view the transfer window as a relative success – Eze was the only major sale, with Wharton and Guehi staying put, while Oliver Glasner is also still in charge despite interest from Manchester United.
“However, this may all only be a temporary reprieve, with Guehi obviously out of contract at the end of the season. As reported yesterday, Liverpool remain confident that they’re in pole position to sign him on a free transfer despite ‘noise’ about links with other clubs.
“Wharton is also going to be one to watch again in upcoming transfer windows, with my sources telling me that Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United could all push for him in January.”
Adam Wharton’s game appears to fit perfectly with Amorim’s philosophy. Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 demands a player who is comfortable on the ball, drives play from the back line and maintains the right balance in the positional structure. The 21-year-old’s greatest asset is his passing range, as he consistently delivers line-breaking passes and moves the ball into the right areas for attackers. He also remains composed under pressure, positioning himself well to receive before immediately setting the team on the move. This is why his presence would give United the confidence to break through opposition pressing.
What makes the Englishman even more valuable is his speed of thought and execution. He constantly scans, turns quickly and releases passes that break down the opposition midfield. Wharton’s profile is in great demand in today’s possession-heavy football and fits neatly into Amorim’s approach. There are clear challenges, though: Wharton needs to be stronger in defensive duels and tackling. He has a relatively light frame and must show greater stamina in the physical side of the game.
If United try to sign Wharton in January, it will not be an easy deal. The 21-year-old is under contract at Palace until 2029, and the club’s strong financial position allows them to demand a high price. Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle and Real Madrid are also eyeing the same target. Still, from a fan’s perspective, if United are serious about the deal and Amorim is clear on his system, Wharton could be the player to transform the Old Trafford midfield for years to come.
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