Real Madrid keen to trump Manchester United to €115 million target

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Aug 31, 2025 9:07 PM ET

Real Madrid want to sign Manchester United target Adam Wharton at the end of the season

Last season made it clear that Manchester United need a strong defensive midfielder. Casemiro still displayed experience and leadership, but his pace and work rate are not the same as before. Rúben Amorim’s system relies on energetic and effective midfielders, and that is why United are looking for a player who can constantly protect the defence and give attacking players like Bruno Fernandes the freedom to play open. Kobbie Mainoo is a rising star, but Amorim prefers to use him in a forward role and he has not found consistent game time. That is why the holding midfield position is still vacant.

Adam Wharton’s name and increasing competition

Meanwhile, eyes are fixed on Crystal Palace’s 21-year-old midfielder Adam Wharton. Fichajes reports that new Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has put him at the top of the target list. Madrid need a midfield controller following the departures of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, and Wharton looks perfect for the role. His Premier League performances have shown that he can control the game by keeping calm under pressure. That’s why both Liverpool and Manchester United are keeping an eye on him.

We reported on July 21 that Wharton may remain at Crystal Palace, but things have slowly changed, and on August 18, we covered that United could try for Wharton in the final days of the summer window. Now, Real Madrid’s interest has complicated the picture even more. Palace are reportedly valuing him at €115 million, a huge sum for any club. The question is, will United be able to stay in the bidding race, or will Madrid use their power and reputation to win?

What is probably going to happen?

From United’s perspective, signing the English defensive midfielder would fill a key need. A defensive midfield anchor who can protect the backline while also progressing possession could play a central role in Amorim’s system. Wharton’s passing range and tactical discipline make him a perfect choice for this position. If he joins United, Mainoo could be seen leaving the club, and there would be more space for creative players like Bruno Fernandes.

However, the problem is money. €115 million is a huge figure, especially considering United have already spent big this summer. Financial Fair Play requirements will also give the club something to think about. Plus, the presence of contenders like Real Madrid and Liverpool doesn’t make things easy for United. Madrid’s magnetic power and financial strength often attract players.

Still, as fans, we think there is hope if United can clearly articulate their vision for the 21-year-old and assure him he will have a permanent role here under Amorim. If this deal doesn’t happen, then the club will have to look for other options, but the truth is that having a player like Wharton could give us the stability we lacked every game last season.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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