Man Utd possess their own Wharton & Anderson blend in £79m-rated “maestro”
Manchester United are gearing up to target a new midfielder in the upcoming transfer windows. A few names are on their radar, but two that consistently appear as viable options are English talents Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson. Neither player would come cheap for the Red Devils. Their respective clubs, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest, might demand as much as £100m for each midfielder. Considering that the England international is likely seen as their club’s standout player, it’s understandable that such a high price is set.
Aside from the hefty fees, it’s clear why United is eager to acquire one, or both, of these midfielders.
What Wharton and Anderson could bring to United
Paul Scholes, renowned for his insights on what constitutes a strong United midfielder, remarked that the comparison between the two is “close,” implying that there’s not a significant difference in their quality. However, they each showcase slightly different abilities. The Palace number 20 is exceptional with the ball, showing proficiency in maneuvering out of tight situations. This season, he averages 5.81 progressive passes per 90 minutes in the Premier League.
While he effectively controls the midfield, Scholes raised the question, “can he get around the pitch?” suggesting there may be some concerns regarding Wharton’s physicality. In contrast, Anderson demonstrates a more athletic and physical presence, highlighted by his 8.25 ball recoveries per game, placing him within the top 1% of Premier League midfielders.
Nevertheless, the Forest standout also contributes quality when in possession. This season, he averages 8.31 progressive passes each match, and his assist for Chris Wood early in the season illustrates the caliber he brings to the table.
Ultimately, both England players are outstanding in their own right. However, United might potentially save a significant amount of money by utilizing a homegrown talent.
United’s in-house version of Wharton and Anderson
It’s certainly disappointing for United supporters that local talent Kobbie Mainoo has not received the playing time he deserves this season. The 20-year-old has accumulated just 212 minutes in Premier League action.
The situation has escalated to the point where rumors of his exit from Old Trafford have surfaced. Numerous clubs are interested in him on a loan basis, and recent accounts from Spain indicate that Real Madrid could be willing to pay £79m to acquire him. Instead of making a hasty decision to part ways with such a valuable academy product, United should consider leveraging Mainoo’s talents. Declan Rice remarked that his England teammates appreciate his “leadership and the way he takes the ball and is comfortable.”
Statman Dave labeled Mainoo as a midfield “maestro,” citing his numerous desirable attributes for a modern midfielder on an elite squad. As a brilliant ball-carrier, his 1.25 successful take-ons per 90 minutes over the past year ranks him in the top 8% of midfielders throughout Europe.
Mainoo’s key stats in last 365 days
| Stat (per 90) | Number | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Key passes | 1.4 | 80th |
| Tackles | 2.5 | 77th |
| Take-ons completed | 1.25 | 92nd |
| Progressive carries | 1.99 | 84th |
It’s apparent how Mainoo embodies a blend of Wharton and Anderson’s attributes. As Rice highlighted, he possesses remarkable composure on the ball. The United number 37 is a forward-thinking player adept in confined spaces and capable of creating opportunities in the attacking third, while also being a proficient ball-winner.
Nicky Butt, another former United midfielder, stated that the Red Devils would “go and buy” Mainoo if he were at a club like Palace. Ironically, United might consider selling him, only to pursue Wharton or Anderson as replacements for this academy gem.
Instead of heavily investing in one of those midfielders, perhaps manager Ruben Amorim should have faith in the 20-year-old and grant him an extended opportunity in the lineup, a move that United fans are eagerly hoping to witness.
Published: 2025-12-20 20:45:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
