Manchester United have reportedly adjusted their list of midfield targets, now prioritising Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton over Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. This strategic shift comes as the Red Devils continue to showcase inconsistencies reminiscent of last season, under the guidance of manager Ruben Amorim, having secured three wins, three losses, and a draw in their opening seven matches.
Having already bolstered their attacking ranks during the summer, with significant investments totalling around £200 million on talents such as Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko, United also acquired a new shot-stopper, Senne Lammens. Despite these additions, there’s been a growing consensus among fans and pundits alike that the club has overlooked reinforcements in the midfield, particularly the acquisition of a defensive stalwart.
Previously linked to Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, United’s pursuit cooled off quickly amidst the realisation that Brighton’s hefty £115 million valuation for the Cameroonian international was beyond their immediate fiscal reach.
According to The i Paper, Wharton has now eclipsed Baleba in United’s transfer ambitions, with Amorim particularly taken by the Crystal Palace midfielder’s direct style of play. Sources further suggest that Wharton’s seamless rise, compounded by Baleba’s struggles for consistent minutes at Brighton, has prompted senior figures at Old Trafford to reconsider their options.
Transfer analyst Graeme Bailey opines that while a midfielder could arrive at United in January, a loan might serve as an interim solution before a sizable summer investment. He noted in a conversation with United In Focus, “A midfield addition in January seems plausible, potentially on loan, with a more permanent signing next summer.”
Bailey continues, highlighting United’s awareness of the substantial market fees associated with Baleba and Wharton, acknowledging that both talents command fees closer to the £100 million mark rather than the previously speculated £50 or £60 million. With the financial support of INEOS, United are keenly aware of the resources necessary to contend with top-tier competition.
Brighton’s chairman, Tony Bloom, quashed any notions of a prolonged transfer saga over Baleba, stating that United’s interest quickly dissipated once informed of the player’s unavailability during the summer window. Bloom remarked, “Interest from Manchester United arose, but we clarified Baleba wasn’t for sale, and their pursuit ended swiftly.”
He went on to express delight at Baleba’s commitment to Brighton for the current season, lauding the player’s significant development and contribution to the club’s objectives.