Erik ten Hag is preparing for a major overhaul of his Manchester United midfield, with the club setting its sights on two of the Premier League's most exciting young talents.
The Red Devils are reportedly plotting an ambitious double swoop for Brighton & Hove Albion's powerhouse Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace's elegant playmaker Adam Wharton. This move signals a clear intent to build a dynamic, youthful core for the future.
Baleba: The Brighton Diamond
Carlos Baleba, the 20-year-old Cameroonian sensation, has taken the Amex by storm since his arrival from Lille. His combative style, incredible engine, and ability to drive forward with the ball have made him a standout in Roberto De Zerbi's system. United's interest is a testament to his rapid adaptation to English football's ferocious pace.
Securing his signature, however, won't be straightforward. Brighton are renowned for their tough negotiating stance and will demand a significant fee for a player they see as a long-term asset.
Wharton: The Palace Prodigy
Meanwhile, Adam Wharton's meteoric rise at Selhurst Park has not gone unnoticed at Old Trafford. The 20-year-old Englishman has been a revelation since his January move from Blackburn Rovers, impressing with his composure, precise passing range, and tactical intelligence beyond his years.
His performances have been so commanding that he's already being tipped for a future senior England call-up. Crystal Palace will be desperate to hold onto their new talisman, potentially making this a complex transfer saga.
A New Midfield Era for United?
This potential double transfer represents a strategic shift for Manchester United. Pursuing two of the league's brightest sub-21 talents shows a focus on long-term project building under INEOS's new sporting direction, rather than seeking quick-fix superstars.
The potential departure of players like Casemiro could free up the necessary funds and space in the squad for such a significant investment in the club's future engine room. United fans will be watching closely to see if the club can pull off what would be a statement-making double deal.
