Adam Wharton speaks to David Ornstein about Manchester United rumours | OneFootball

Adam Wharton has refused to be drawn into rumours linking him with a move to Manchester United. The English midfielder has enjoyed a steady rise at Crystal Palace and is now regarded as one of the finest in his position in the Premier League.

His performances have reportedly caught the eye at the Theatre of Dreams. The Red Devils have significantly improved this season following a summer of well-judged reinforcements.

Bryan Mbeumo has been a revelation so far, while Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens have also settled in well. Benjamin Sesko’s slow start is expected to be only a temporary setback for a player with such a high ceiling.

Saturday’s 2-2 draw away to Tottenham Hotspur showcased the team’s character, and all indications are that Amorim’s side are moving in the right direction.

United expected to invest in midfield next year

United focused on strengthening the attack in the summer, but midfield is likely to be their main priority in 2026.

United need an injection of youth in the middle of the park, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro already on the wrong side of 30. The Brazilian’s contract also expires in just over six months, further adding to the urgency.

The Red Devils would be tempted to add a controller in the middle of the park, someone who can string passes together and dictate the tempo of the game from deep.

Wharton is among the names mentioned as potential options for the job, and the Crystal Palace man has now responded to those rumours.

Wharton not affected by rumours

Speaking to acclaimed journalist David Ornstein for The Athletic, Wharton insisted that he prefers not to indulge in rumours linking him with top clubs across Europe. He said: “I don’t really look into it or think too much about it. There are always rumours floating about on social media. Is it true? Is it not? You tell me.”

“My friends, my family, my brothers, everyone will message me and be like, ‘Is it true this club’s interested?’ I’m like, ‘Thanks for telling me because I didn’t know.’

“If something’s going to be serious, I can think about it, but if not… if there’s interest, I’m not interested in knowing. You can be interested in anything and nothing could come of it.

“You must be doing something right for those sorts of clubs to be interested or wanting you, but until there’s something concrete and direct communication, I wouldn’t stress about it.”

When asked about United’s possible interest, Wharton added: “I don’t know who’s spreading it or who at United is looking at it. I see it and I’m like, ‘OK’, and then I carry on with my day. United, the big teams, they’re all linked to 10, 20 different players.

“If I’m one of 20, then it’s nothing special, so it doesn’t really mean too much. I speak with my agent about planning ahead and possibilities.

“But at the end of the day, it is who’s interested and who’s willing to try and get you if that becomes the case? You can speak about it, but you’ve got to represent that on the pitch and prove that you deserve it.”

Wharton helped Crystal Palace win the FA Cup last season and has been indispensable for the Eagles once again this term. The 21 year old has made 14 appearances across competitions, all but two of which were from the start.

Adam Wharton Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt

Wharton’s contract at Selhurst Park runs until 2029, so United may have to pay a premium for his signature. With Real Madrid and Liverpool also among those in the mix, Wharton could spark a bidding war for his services in 2026.

Featured image Matt McNulty via Getty Images

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