A couple of years ago, Kobbie Mainoo was seen as the latest talent to emerge out of the Manchester United academy, potentially cementing his place in the first-team squad.
The excitement around his performance was understandable, especially after he popped up with key goals, including a late winner against Wolves, before scoring in the FA Cup final back in 2023/24.
However, last year was an injury-hit campaign for the youngster, only making 25 appearances in the Premier League, with just 19 of which coming from a starting position.
Mainoo has also had to face competition from the likes of Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro for the starting role, but has rapidly dropped down Ruben Amorim’s pecking order at Old Trafford.
Things could be about to get a lot worse for the 20-year-old in the months ahead, especially considering the hierarchy are targeting added reinforcements in such an area in the coming weeks.
The latest on United’s hunt for a new midfielder
A new name has entered the mix for United over the last couple of days, with Stuttgart talent Angelo Stiller a player the Red Devils are considering, according to recent reports.
The German, who made 47 appearances across all competitions last season, could be available for around £50m this summer – a potential bargain if they don’t land one other target.
Another player has been firmly in their sights over the last few weeks, with Crystal Palace talent Adam Wharton one option the club are considering, according to one report.
They claim that Amorim’s side have made an approach for the 21-year-old, who helped the Eagles win the FA Cup and Community Shield under Oliver Glasner.
It’s also been confirmed that the player has been valued at around £100m this summer, a potential hefty fee, given he’s only made 36 appearances in England’s top-flight.
Why United’s latest target is a bigger talent than Baleba
It’s no secret that United have been pursuing a move for Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer, even holding talks to land the 21-year-old.
At one stage, it appeared as though a move for the Cameroonian was rapidly progressing, with the player himself open to a switch to move to Old Trafford before the September 1st deadline.
However, a deal has somewhat evaporated over the last couple of days, leading to the Red Devils accepting the Seagulls’ stance that the youngster is not for sale this summer.
As a result, the hierarchy have had to look down other avenues, leading to the recent rumours to land German star Stiller after his rapid rise in the Bundesliga in recent months.
Whilst he would be a superb addition, a move for Wharton must now be the priority, potentially being an expensive pickup, but one that would be worth every penny if he carries on his current trajectory.
In his short career, he’s already picked up two more trophies than Baleba, getting a taste for success – something which the Red Devils desperately need in the near future.
When comparing their respective stats from the recent campaign, the Englishman managed to massively outperform the Cameroonian in key areas – showcasing why he’d be a bigger talent for Amorim’s side.
Games played
20
34
Goals & assists
2
4
Progressive passes
7.6
3.9
Key passes made
1.8
0.7
Passes into final third
5.3
3.6
Interceptions made
1.6
1.5
Clearances made
1.9
1.4
Carries into final third
1.6
1.5
Recoveries made
7.1
6.6
Wharton, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by HLTCO, notched more passes into the final third and more key passes completed – having the tools to provide the players ahead of him with chances in front of goal.
He also made more recoveries per 90 and registered more interceptions per 90, outperforming Baleba in such an area – highlighting the defensive quality he possesses.
Given the similarities in the fees touted for the aforementioned duo, either player would be an expensive addition – further showcasing the ambition shown by the board this summer.
The nature of the money involved makes it pivotal that the club make the right decision about whom to sign, with Wharton showcasing that he would be a better addition ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
It would be extremely harsh on Mainoo, with any deal massively disrupting his progress in the side, but unfortunately, the world of football is a cutthroat industry, with the academy graduate needing to try and force himself back into the manager’s plans.
