Not only Baleba – Man United add two other exciting EPL stars to midfield shortlist

Manchester United are determined to strengthen their midfield next summer, and Carlos Baleba isn’t the only name on Jason Wilcox’s shortlist.

The Red Devils pulled off a major attacking overhaul in the summer, bringing in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, while offloading four members of the so-called ‘bomb squad’. They also addressed their goalkeeping issues by replacing Andre Onana with Senne Lammens.

But on the other hand, MUFC didn’t have enough funds left to recruit a new No.6, so their midfield department remained intact. The club had identified Baleba as their priority target, but Brighton refused to negotiate a deal below £100 million, so the matter was swiftly closed.

Man United still following Carlos Baleba after falling short last summer

Since Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte remain far from inspiring, INEOS realise that signing a new holding midfielder should be the first order of business next summer. But while most sources agree that Baleba remains at the top of the shortlist, Man Utd are reportedly tracking another two young Premier League midfielders.

According to The Telegraph journalist Mike McGrath, United are keeping close tabs on Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, as well as Nottingham Forest’s Eliot Anderson.

Both midfielders are England international players who are aiming for a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad next summer.

Adam Wharton & Eliot Anderson also on Man Utd wishlist

The source warns the Reds about a potential duel with their crosstown rivals, Manchester City, who might decide to enter the race for one or more of the aforementioned Man Utd targets, as they’ll be seeking a long-term replacement for Rodri.

While Baleba is considered a midfield enforcer blessed with impressive physical attributes, Wharton is a genuine deep-lying playmaker, as he possesses an impeccable touch and the ability to advance the play. For his part, Anderson is a modern box-to-box midfielder who boasts a well-rounded game