Transfer update for United

Rooney signals a preferred midfield option for Manchester United as Baleba sits on hold and alternatives are highlighted.

Wayne Rooney has already told Man United which Carlos Baleba transfer alternative to prioritise

Manchester United expect to miss out on Carlos Baleba this summer as the deal stalls near the transfer deadline. Baleba remains keen on a move but United have paused the pursuit while they assess other options. United must shore up midfield before September 1, with potential targets named including Morten Hjulmand and Ederson. Rooney has previously praised Adam Wharton, a Crystal Palace midfielder, as a player who can bring bite and energy to United’s midfield.

Back in April, Rooney highlighted Wharton’s performances for Palace and Blackburn Rovers, noting his willingness to win the ball back and his commitment. Wharton’s suitability for United’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system is cited as a plus, and his Premier League experience could help ease any transition.

Rooney’s public backing of Wharton shows how former players still influence transfer thinking, adding weight to a homegrown option at United. It also underlines how a delayed pursuit of Baleba creates a market gap that others may try to fill, potentially strengthening Palace’s negotiating position.

The balance between long-term strategy and short-term window pressure is clear. If United pursue Wharton and resist a quick fix, they send a signal that style and system matter as much as price. But moving now carries risk—injury, form shifts, and the cost of late deals could complicate the season ahead.

Highlights

The midfield story for Manchester United is far from settled.