Manchester United’s summer rebuild under Ruben Amorim has been defined by shrewd incomings but also by a clear focus on fixing long-term gaps in the squad.
Supporters saw encouraging signs despite the loss to Arsenal at the weekend, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha impressing.
However, the lack of a natural number six remains a major concern.
United have explored the market in recent weeks, holding talks with Brighton over Carlos Baleba, though his price tag has made negotiations difficult.
That pursuit has left the club actively scouting alternatives who could slot into the number six role and provide the foundation Amorim wants in midfield.
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According to Graeme Bailey, United sent scouts to Stamford Bridge on Saturday to watch Adam Wharton in action for Crystal Palace against Chelsea.
The 21-year-old produced an outstanding display in the opening-day draw, excelling in a holding role as Palace deployed a three-man defence.
Wharton dictated proceedings up against Chelsea’s midfield duo of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, showing off his quality on the biggest stage.
Bailey reiterated that Adam Wharton has been on United’s radar for some time.
While a move this month appears very unlikely, his performance further strengthened his case as a long-term target.
United view the youngster as a player who possesses many of the key attributes required to operate at the base of their midfield.
With Baleba’s valuation already high and Wharton’s certain to rise, the club face a difficult balancing act as they weigh up which investment to make.
For now, Wharton remains a Palace player, but his ability to orchestrate games at such a young age ensures he will stay on United’s list of midfield options for the future.
Wharton would very much be another dream signing for United fans, along with Baleba.
