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Liverpool FC NewsTransfer NewsManchester United FCManchester United reportedly view Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as 'too similar' to Kobbie Mainoo, but could still pursue a transfer if they sign three midfielders this summer. Meanwhile, Wharton is celebrating Palace's Conference League triumph in style.Adam Wharton lifting the Conference League trophy with Crystal Palace(Image: Getty Images)Manchester United regards Adam Wharton as 'too similar' to Kobbie Mainoo, yet could still pursue him should they opt to bring in three midfielders rather than two this summer.United is eager to bolster their midfield and are expected to make Ederson their first signing of the Michael Carrick era, having agreed a $51 million (£38 million) deal with Atalanta.
While his progressive passing is admired, it is believed he is not a natural partner for Mainoo in Carrick's 4-2-3-1 system.Liverpool and Chelsea are among the clubs thought to be keeping a close eye on Wharton's situation, though despite the swirling speculation over his future, his focus right now will undoubtedly be on celebrating Crystal Palace's Conference League victory.The 22 year old impressed for Palace on Wednesday as they overcame Spanish opposition Rayo Vallecano to lift Europe's third-tier trophy and secure Europa League football for the forthcoming season. Following an exceptional performance, Wharton was presented with UEFA's Player of the Match award in recognition of his contribution.Speaking afterwards about how he plans to celebrate Palace's achievement, Wharton has "big" intentions after missing out on the festivities following the FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City 12 months prior due to a head injury.Adam Wharton has shone for Crystal Palace(Image: Getty)He told TNT Sports: "It's going to be big.
I've got to do the doping [check] now so hopefully I can get on the beers and alcohol quickly!"Oliver Glasner, who had previously been linked with the vacant United role before Michael Carrick was confirmed on a permanent basis, has delivered outstanding results at Palace.Since taking charge at Selhurst Park in February 2024, Glasner has steered the Eagles to three pieces of silverware, amongst them the FA Cup and Conference League.Paying homage to the Austrian tactician, Wharton added: "The difference he's made in two-and-a-half years is incredible. He's got to be one of the best managers Palace have ever had and he's made a huge difference on how the club looks at competitions now."Even if United are unable to secure Wharton's signature, he is widely expected to draw substantial interest from other clubs.
