Key Takeaways:
- Manchester United have prepared a £60 million offer for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, aiming for a January move
- The Red Devils may finance the deal through the sale of Kobbie Mainoo, who has had limited opportunities under Ruben Amorim
- With Casemiro’s contract expiring and persistent interest in Bruno Fernandes from Saudi Arabia, United’s midfield is poised for significant changes next summer
Manchester United Target Crystal Palace’s Wharton in Ambitious Midfield Move
Manchester United are reportedly preparing a formal £60 million bid for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, with a view to securing the 21-year-old midfielder as early as the January transfer window, according to the Mirror. Wharton, who recently made his debut for the England senior team, has been the subject of close scrutiny by Ruben Amorim and the club’s scouting network. Old Trafford officials have now prioritised Wharton as their leading midfield target, after originally earmarking Brighton’s Carlos Baleba for the role.
💣🚨🚨BREAKING: Manchester United are preparing a £60M move for Adam Wharton.
The club believes an offer in that range could be enough to tempt Crystal Palace into selling.
Wharton in January and Baleba in the summer — make it happen, @ManUtd! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/wB5UZMp82N
— mufcytp (@mufcytp) October 12, 2025
Changing Priorities in United’s Recruitment Strategy
While Carlos Baleba was initially in consideration, a downturn in the Brighton player’s form this season has raised concerns among Manchester United staff regarding his resilience and psychological readiness for the demands of playing at Old Trafford. As a result, focus has firmly shifted to Wharton, whose performances have drawn high praise and placed him at the forefront of United’s midfield plans.
Potential Outgoings to Fund Wharton Deal
To help finance the move, Manchester United are looking at the possible departure of Kobbie Mainoo. The midfielder has found first-team opportunities under Ruben Amorim increasingly scarce, and is now expected to seek a move away in the winter transfer window to secure more playing time. Should United fail to land Wharton in January, the club remains determined to pursue him again during the summer window.
Midfield Departures on the Horizon
Significant change could be coming to United’s midfield beyond this season. With Casemiro approaching the end of his contract by the coming summer, and captain Bruno Fernandes continuing to attract considerable attention and lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, United’s engine room appears set for a major overhaul. Speculation is rife that Fernandes could follow Casemiro out the door, increasing the need for reinforcement.
