“As it stands…”: Why United are not pushing harder for PL sensation who is there for the taking now revealed – report

Manchester United have encountered unexpected difficulties as they look to sign Casemiro’s successor in the summer. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson was their primary target, but as things stand, noisy neighbours Manchester City look on course to pip them in the race. Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United was next on the pecking order of targets, but the Magpies’ asking price, coupled with the Italian’s wage demands, has complicated matters. Another Premier League-proven name on United’s wishlist is Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace. Adam Wharton remains under consideration The Englishman’s ability to dictate play from deep has impressed INEOS, but Talksport have now revealed why United are not pushing harder for the 22-year-old. The report states that the 20-time English league champions feel the former Blackburn Rovers ace has a similar playstyle to Kobbie Mainoo. Under former head coach Ruben Amorim, the Carrington graduate was seemingly on his way out. But Michael Carrick‘s arrival has changed things. Mainoo is now a guaranteed starter, and INEOS are close to agreeing a new contract with the midfield wonderkid. Adam Wharton: why United have him lower down the pecking order This means he is likely to stay put at Old Trafford, thereby reducing the need to sign a similar profile in Adam Wharton. “United view Anderson as their top choice ahead of Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton. The Newcastle and Crystal Palace midfielders are also under consideration. “And sources say Wharton is deemed similar to Kobbie Mainoo in profile leading to other options being looked at ahead of him as it stands.” Both Adam Wharton and Mainoo are not blessed with explosive pace, nor are they pressing monsters. Their technical skills with the ball is what makes them standout talents. It seems United are looking for physically dominant defensive midfielders and it will be interesting to see who they eventually sign. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25