Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson: Update on Man United signing top midfield target
Man United plan to wait until the summer to chase top midfield targets including Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson rather than spending big in January.
Michael Carrick could be backed in other areas before the window closes, but any major spending is more likely to be reserved for the next permanent boss.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Man United are no longer prioritising the addition of a midfielder this month.
This comes after Football Insider revealed in November that Man United are unlikely to spend big in January as they continue to eye high-profile targets.
Both Wharton and Anderson rank highly on United’s list of midfield targets, with the position highlighted as a key area to address in future windows.
Man United make decision about signing midfielder in January
Football Insider revealed in September that Man United are desperate to sign a new midfielder when the window opens, with a number of options on their radar.
However, following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal and the arrival of Carrick on an interim basis, their initial priorities have now shifted.
Signing a new midfielder, while still a requirement, can be put on hold until the next permanent manager arrives and spending is expected to increase.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “We know that United are in the market for midfield reinforcements.
“I think they’ll probably expect to wait until the summer to launch moves for some of their top targets; the likes of Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba.
“Right now, I don’t think it’s a priority for United to move for that midfield position.
“I’ve been informed that United are looking at a left-winger in this month’s window, and even that would only be a loan deal as well.
“I don’t think United will be splashing out big-money unless the right player becomes available.”
Man United set sights on signing left-winger
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 15 January that Carrick wants to sign a left-winger as a priority after holding talks with Jason Wilcox this week.
Matheus Cunha started on the left wing during Man United’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton, before Patrick Dorgu was picked in the position in the 2-0 win against Man City.
As a result, the club’s recruitment team are scouring the market for suitable loan options which would fit within their budget for the mid-season window.
A loan deal is being considered rather than a permanent deal as things stand, as it would allow the club to reassess the position under a new manager’s guidance.
This comes after Football Insider revealed on 9 January that Man United have no plans to spend big this month, and instead plan to back the next permanent boss in the summer.
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