Manchester United have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, after his agent outlined the player's clear plan to reach the pinnacle of European football.
United's Top Target and the £70m Price Tag
The Red Devils have placed the England international Adam Wharton firmly at the top of their transfer shortlist as incoming manager Ruben Amorim prepares to overhaul his squad. The 21-year-old has impressed since his move from Blackburn Rovers to Selhurst Park, making 62 appearances, winning the FA Cup, and helping Palace qualify for Europe.
However, securing his signature will not come cheap. Crystal Palace are anticipated to demand a fee in the region of £70 million for their prized asset, who still has three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract.
The Structured Path to Champions League Football
In an interview with talkSPORT, Wharton's agent, James Featherstone, provided a revealing insight into the midfielder's career strategy. He confirmed that Wharton's ultimate ambition is to compete in the Champions League, a view intrinsically linked to his aspirations with the national team.
"When he was at Blackburn we sat down and spoke about shooting for the stars and playing for England," Featherstone said. "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."
Featherstone emphasised that the plan is measured and patient, acknowledging Wharton's youth. "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 added, describing the approach as "very structured, calm".
Midfield Overhaul Could Spark Mainoo Exit
Wharton is not the only midfielder on United's radar as they look to strengthen. The club have also identified Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher as potential options for the engine room.
The arrival of any new central midfielder could have significant consequences for the current squad. It is reported that such a move might pave the way for academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo to seek a January exit, having reportedly fallen out of favour under Amorim's management.
Wharton's credentials are bolstered by his rapid rise on the international stage, where he has already earned three caps for England under manager Thomas Tuchel. His combination of youthful promise, proven Premier League quality, and a clear career trajectory makes him a highly coveted asset as Manchester United plot their summer rebuild.
