Manchester United demonstrated their enduring allure in the world of football during the summer transfer window. Despite coming off their worst season in Premier League history and without the lure of Champions League football, the Red Devils still managed to attract three new attackers and a goalkeeper, significantly bolstering their squad from the previous season. While there’s still room for improvement, United are now looking more towards the top end of the table.
The next area on the agenda for the Reds is midfield. With Casemiro’s future at the club uncertain, and even if he stays, a younger replacement will be needed as United aim to reduce the average age of their starting line-up. Moreover, with rumours swirling around Kobbie Mainoo’s future, a player like Adam Wharton could be an ideal addition for the Reds next season. The Crystal Palace midfielder, thought to be rated at £70million, has proven his mettle in the Premier League, demonstrating his versatility as both a playmaker and a defensive stalwart when required.
However, the pursuit of Wharton comes with concerns that United may not be able to compete with other clubs also vying for his signature.
In a recent interview with talkSPORT, his agent James Featherstone outlined what United need to do to secure his client’s services.
“When he was at Blackburn we sat down and spoke about shooting for the stars and playing for England,” Featherstone explained.
“So how do you get there? Personally I think to play for England you have to play Champions League. To play in the Champions League you have got to play for one of the top teams in one of the top leagues.
“That jump to a Champions League team, I think you can get lost. The plan below that was to play for a Premier League team. We have got a plan.
“He is 21. I have to check myself to remember that every now and then. It doesn’t have to be achieved yesterday, today or this moment.
“He has got his in-game, in-season targets and goals. He has got to do his bit and the rest will look after itself in a very structured, calm way to ultimately add value and maximise his ability.”
It is evident that Wharton’s ambition is to compete in the Champions League, and whilst United have appeared far from that level in recent times, they remain within striking distance of a qualification spot.
They currently sit 12th in the Premier League but the table is remarkably tight, meaning a few victories could genuinely propel them into contention for a top-four finish.
Fifth place might even be sufficient to secure Champions League football for the 2026/27 season. The issue is that consistency remains elusive for United.
If they harbour ambitions of attracting players of Wharton’s calibre, they must discover that consistency.