Manchester United are less likely to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton due to concerns that his playing style is too similar to that of Kobbie Mainoo, according to reports. The 22-year-old is one of several midfielders on United's shortlist as they seek a replacement for the outgoing Casemiro.
Wharton, who helped Palace win the FA Cup last season and is expected to feature for England at the World Cup, has been valued at around £70 million. Manchester City and Liverpool have also been linked with the former Blackburn Rovers youngster.
Since Michael Carrick's appointment as manager, Mainoo has been a regular in a two-man midfield alongside Casemiro. The club aims to recruit a midfielder who is compatible with Mainoo, but Wharton's profile is deemed too similar. Other targets such as Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, and Aurelien Tchouameni are considered more similar to Casemiro.
United could still pursue Wharton if they look to sign multiple midfielders this summer, depending on the future of Manuel Ugarte, who has made only one start under Carrick. Qualification for the Champions League would provide a significantly stronger budget.
Palace's managerial situation is uncertain, with Oliver Glasner set to leave upon the expiry of his contract in June and no successor yet confirmed. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, also leaving his post, is a candidate. Wharton was absent from Palace's recent draw with West Ham due to a minor injury but is expected to return for Saturday's match against Liverpool.
