Wharton to Man Utd truth as Palace star teases ‘big plans’ | Football | Sport
Manchester United view Adam Wharton as ‘too similar’ to Kobbie Mainoo but could still pursue him if they opt to sign three midfielders rather than two this summer.
United are keen to strengthen in midfield and are anticipated to make Ederson the first signing of the Michael Carrick era, having agreed a £38million deal with Atalanta. The 26-year-old Brazilian has shone in Serie A over the past four years and is set to bring additional quality and depth to United’s midfield.
However, with Casemiro departing United at the conclusion of his contract in June and United requiring more personnel due to Champions League football, Ederson won’t be the only midfield arrival this summer. The Reds are examining the market for a host of other targets, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
Wharton is another who has been placed on United’s wishlist, but the club believe he possesses a similar profile to Mainoo and therefore might avoid making a move for him, according to The Telegraph. While Wharton’s progressive passing is appreciated, it is thought that he isn’t a natural partner to Mainoo in United’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Carrick.
Liverpool and Chelsea are amongst the other clubs believed to be tracking Wharton’s situation, but, despite the speculation surrounding his future, his primary attention at present is undoubtedly celebrating Crystal Palace’s Conference League triumph.
The 22-year-old shone for Palace on Wednesday as they defeated Spanish opponents Rayo Vallecano to claim Europe’s third-tier trophy and thus guarantee Europa League football for next season. After an outstanding display, Wharton was awarded UEFA’s Player of the Match for his contribution.
Speaking afterwards about how he intends to mark Palace’s success, Wharton has “big” plans after being unable to join the festivities following the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City 12 months earlier following a head injury.
He told TNT Sports: “It’s going to be big. I missed the FA Cup last year so I’ve got two celebrations to catch up on. I’ve got to do the doping [check] now so hopefully I can get on the beers and alcohol quickly!”
Oliver Glasner, who was previously linked with the vacant United position before Michael Carrick was confirmed on a permanent basis, has performed magnificently at Palace.
Since his arrival at Selhurst Park in February 2024, Glasner has guided the Eagles to three pieces of silverware, including the FA Cup and Conference League.
Paying tribute to the Austrian, Wharton added: “The difference he’s made in two-and-a-half years is incredible. Unbelievable. He’s got to be one of the best managers Palace have ever had and he’s made a huge difference on how the club looks at competitions now.”
Even if United fail to secure Wharton’s signature, he is widely anticipated to attract considerable interest from elsewhere. The Blackburn-born midfielder is regarded as one of the most gifted players in his position in world football at present.
