Manchester United have formulated their approach for the January transfer window, with Crystal Palace midfield sensation Adam Wharton emerging as a primary target, though any concrete move is likely to be delayed until summer.
United's Cautious Midfield Strategy
The Red Devils are set to exercise patience in their pursuit of 21-year-old Adam Wharton, despite overwhelming praise from club legends. Having arrived at Selhurst Park from Blackburn Rovers in January 2024 for £18.5 million, Wharton has rapidly developed into one of the Premier League's most promising deep-lying playmakers.
United's summer saw attacking reinforcements with the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, but the midfield is now identified as the next area for strengthening. Wharton features prominently on a long shortlist of potential recruits, though any formal approach is expected to be postponed until the 2025 summer window.
Legendary Endorsement for Wharton
United icons Roy Keane and Rio Ferdinand have both publicly admired Wharton's qualities, particularly highlighting his forward-thinking approach. Following England's 2-0 victory against Albania, where Wharton started, Keane emphasised what sets the youngster apart.
"I do like Adam Wharton," Keane stated. "A lot of the modern midfielders, their first option seems to be, 'Can I go sideways or backwards?' What I like about him, the first option he seems to look at is, 'Can I pass it forward?' and that's a big strength to have."
Keane also encouraged Wharton to develop greater on-pitch authority, suggesting he should "put demands onto people" and vocally request the ball from teammates as his career progresses.
Ferdinand echoed this sentiment on his YouTube channel, directly comparing Wharton to United great Michael Carrick. "I would sign another central midfielder this summer to play alongside Manuel Ugarte. That player needs to be able to take the ball and transfer it up the pitch. You know who I would go for? Adam Wharton," Ferdinand declared. "He can get on the ball and transfer it up the pitch. Wharton has got a great range of passing. I think he would be a great addition to the United squad."
Financial Prudence Behind Summer Delay
According to ESPN reports, United's decision to wait until summer is part of a detailed recruitment plan. The club anticipates significant financial flexibility by the end of the season when several high-earning players see their contracts expire.
The departures of Casemiro, Harry Maguire, and Jadon Sancho in 2026 are projected to shave up to £1 million per week from the wage bill. Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona, is another substantial earner the club hopes to offload permanently.
This financial restructuring will free up necessary funds to pursue primary targets. Alongside Wharton, United are also monitoring Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller as potential midfield reinforcements, setting the stage for a busy summer at Old Trafford.
