9 August 2026
Manchester United are still searching for a third midfield addition to complete Michael Carrick’s planned overhaul in that area.
Andrey Santos has looked impressive in pre-season, while Youri Tielemans’ cameo against Paris Saint-Germain also went down well with the supporters.
Because Mason Mount had shown good form in a deeper role during pre-season, INEOS were considering whether they could avoid bringing in another midfielder.
However, the former Chelsea player’s injury on Saturday has now left the Red Devils with little option but to return to the market.
CaughtOffside have reported that the 20-time English league champions are seriously assessing Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.
The main issue is that the Eagles are demanding £86 million for their key man, a figure INEOS are unlikely to meet given they are also aiming to recruit a new left-back and a back-up striker.
Chelsea are regarded as United’s biggest competitors for the deal, while Real Madrid are also admirers of the 22-year-old. That level of interest means Palace are under no pressure to reduce their valuation, and it could even lead to a bidding war.
“Manchester United remain interested in strengthening their midfield with Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, but an increasingly crowded transfer race threatens to complicate their plans.
“The major obstacle is Palace’s enormous valuation, particularly with Chelsea becoming more aggressive and Real Madrid continuing to monitor developments.
“Man United’s interest remains active, although Crystal Palace’s demand of around €100 million has prevented negotiations from accelerating.
“Chelsea represent the biggest danger. Recent reports suggest that the Blues have resumed discussions with Palace and that Wharton remains a priority for Xabi Alonso.”
United had initially seen Adam Wharton as a player stylistically similar to Kobbie Mainoo, but it is obvious that someone with the England international’s qualities would suit Carrick’s system extremely well.
The head coach wants his side to dictate the tempo of matches and values deep-lying playmakers who can break lines with their passing. The Crystal Palace talisman matches that profile perfectly.
It will be interesting to see whether INEOS decide to go all in for the former Blackburn Rovers player, or whether they instead move for a more physical option such as Carlos Baleba. Supporters will be hoping the club do not eventually settle for a cheaper alternative.
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment Overall credibility: 6/10 Why?
Manchester United’s interest in the player is widely known. Carrick is desperate for reinforcements after Mount’s injury. Crystal Palace’s asking price continues to be a major obstacle.
It is believed that United’s interest in Adam Wharton is genuine, but they are unlikely to pay the amount Palace are asking. Both Chelsea and Real Madrid could still beat them to the signing, as neither club is reluctant to spend heavily.
