Manchester United eye January midfield overhaul amid contract talks

Manchester United are preparing a midfield overhaul that could begin as early as the January window, with the club lining up a mix of younger prospects and value targets while managing several contract decisions and an underwhelming start to the season. Recruitment chiefs have identified Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton among their priority targets and are also monitoring alternatives across Europe as manager Ruben Amorim seeks greater balance in the centre of the park.

United sit midtable after seven league games, with three wins, three defeats and a draw, and the club hierarchy has signalled midfield as the area most in need of reinforcements. Insiders say a permanent move for Wharton would likely require a fee in the region of 60 million and that Palace are reluctant to sell before the end of the season. Chelsea and other top clubs are reported to be interested in Wharton as well, which could force an accelerated timetable if United are to win a transfer race.

The club is exploring other options that may be more affordable in January. Sevilla midfielder Lucien Agoume, whose release clause is understood to be near 35 million, has been flagged as a cost effective holding...