Journalist Pete O’Rourke reveals that Manchester United target Adam Wharton feels settled at Crystal Palace
Manchester United have spent months keeping a close eye on several young midfielders who could transform their future. The club’s scouts are focusing heavily on talent within the Premier League.
One name keeps floating in the media, and that is Adam Wharton. He has progressed steadily at Crystal Palace and now commands attention across Europe. The 21-year-old’s rise has become one of the season’s most talked-about stories.
Pete O’Rourke, speaking on the Inside Track podcast, said Wharton still has almost four years left on his contract at Selhurst Park, which runs until 2029. He explained that the player feels settled and enjoys regular football under Oliver Glasner. Wharton celebrates Palace’s success after their FA Cup win last season.
He now leads the midfield in both domestic and European matches. O’Rourke noted that Wharton’s strong form has naturally drawn attention from big clubs. Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, and even Real Madrid are tracking his progress very keenly.
The midfielder is very good at retaining possession and can move the ball under pressure. Moreover, Wharton stays calm in tight spaces and maintains the team’s rhythm in midfield. Palace must convince him that their ambitions match his if they want him to stay.
“Obviously, he’s got just under four years left on his deal at Selhurst Park right now until 2029.
“It doesn’t seem he’s in any real massive rush to leave Palace right now, he’s enjoying his football and playing week in, week out in the Premier League.
“He has become a key man in Glasner’s side with Palace doing so well at the moment, having won the FA Cup last year and playing in Europe.
“It seems Wharton is happy with life at Selhurst Park, but his form and performances will attract interest from other clubs.
“Liverpool, Manchester United are admirers, Manchester City, Chelsea, Spurs, and even Real Madrid have all been linked with Wharton.
“He’s been a relevation since his move to Selhurst Park and it’s not A surprise these elite European clubs are all having a look at him.”
United’s alternatives if Wharton slips away
If Manchester United fail to sign either Carlos Baleba or Wharton, the club still have several realistic midfield targets that should fit their recruitment plans. One leading option is Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. He possesses defensive strength with progressive play, much like Wharton and Baleba.
Anderson shows confidence with the ball at his feet and moves quickly in tight areas. His sharp passing impresses observers, especially after his England debut. We reported earlier that United eyed a late move for Lucien Agoume in the summer transfer window of 2025. The current focus now leans towards Premier League experience. Nottingham Forest, however, have set a £70 million asking price for Anderson, according to other reports. Still, United may choose to look abroad.