Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is reportedly prioritising a move for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton over Brighton and Hove Albion ace Carlos Baleba. The under-fire Red Devils manager is known to be keen on bolstering his midfield. United were linked with Baleba during the summer transfer window, but a deal failed to materialise as most of their budget was spent on strengthening their attack.
Brighton chairman Tony Bloom has confirmed the interest in the Cameroon international, although talks with United did not progress beyond initial contact. The Seagulls were reportedly demanding a fee in the region of £115million – similar to the deal for Moises Caicedo with Chelsea – if they were to sell. Despite the hefty price tag, Baleba continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford ahead of the January window.
United are also keeping tabs on other midfielders, including Wharton. Reports suggest that the England international has now moved ahead of Baleba on United’s transfer shortlist.
According to i, Amorim is a big fan of Wharton, particularly his ability to initiate attacks with forward passes. Baleba’s inconsistent start to the season with Brighton has reportedly raised some concerns at Old Trafford.
While Brighton are still expected to demand over £100million for Baleba, it is believed that Wharton could be available for a lesser amount. However, the exact asking price from Palace remains uncertain.
They want to secure a replacement before cashing in, making a summer deal more likely than a January one. It’s also reported that United are prepared to wait to bring the right player into the club.
The choice between Wharton and Baleba appears to be a decision United face for the upcoming transfer windows, whether that’s in January or next summer.
It seems their position from just a few months ago may have shifted, with Wharton now emerging as the priority target ahead of his Premier League rival.