Manchester United could break their transfer record to sign an “amazing” midfielder, who has now emerged as one of their top targets.
Man Utd looking to sign new midfielder who could replace Casemiro
Casemiro has emerged as one of Man United’s most consistent performers this season, making 12 appearances in the Premier League, during which time he’s picked up three goals and one assist, and the Brazilian put in another eye-catching performance against Crystal Palace.
The former Real Madrid man made three interceptions and three tackles, the highest combined total of any player, as the Red Devils fought back to secure a 2-1 win at Selhurst Park, after a concerning opening 45 minutes.
Indeed, Palace went into the break a goal to the good, and it was much-deserved, having recorded an xG of 1.59, compared to 0.92 from the visitors, with Jean-Phillippe Mateta opening the scoring from the spot.
Mateta won the penalty after being played through by Adam Wharton, with the Englishman giving Casemiro the run-around in the first half.
With the Brazil international’s contract set to expire next summer, Man United are now searching for a new midfielder, and they could break their club-record transfer fee by signing Wharton, who has now been identified as a top target alongside Elliot Anderson.
That is according to a report from Manchester World, which states United view strengthening their midfield options as a priority, and INEOS are aware it will take a huge fee to sign an elite option, with Crystal Palace set to hold out for over £100m, which would smash the £89m spent on Paul Pogba.
The need to sign a new midfielder could also be exacerbated by Bruno Fernandes deciding he wants to leave next summer, while Kobbie Mainoo is now unhappy at Old Trafford due to a lack of game time.
Wharton could be "amazing" signing for Man Utd
Lauded as “amazing” by journalist Raj Chohan, the Palace maestro has put in some top performances in the Premier League as of late, impressing against United and picking up an assist in his side’s 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the previous match.
The 21-year-old ranks in the 82nd percentile for assists per 90 over the past year, having averaged 0.17, while Gareth Southgate has praised his composure, saying: “He played as he’s trained, he receives well, he’s very composed, he plays forward.
“That sounds simple but it’s not a simple thing to do. He plays a lot of one-touch football, he sees a picture when the ball arrives to him.”
Wharton clearly has what it takes to reach the very highest level, so it is exciting news that Man United could break their transfer record to get a deal done.
