Manchester United consider two alternatives to Carlos Baleba | OneFootball

Manchester United are pondering moves for Morten Hjulmand and Adam Wharton after calling off their pursuit of midfielder Carlos Baleba.

Manager Ruben Amorim is keen to avoid the fate of previous United managers since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.

He will be happy with the club’s transfer activity this summer, as they have signed Matheus Cunha, Diego Leon, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.

Despite their sizeable outlay, Amorim still wants the club to sign a central midfielder before the September 1 transfer deadline.

United must move for Wharton

United made official contact with Brighton & Hove Albion for Baleba, but they do not want to sell him this summer.

They are now considering Hjulmand and Wharton as alternatives, per The Athletic. Hjulmand worked under Amorim at Sporting CP.

However, Sporting have already sold Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal this summer, and they will be reluctant to lose their captain.

Wharton is undoubtedly a more viable option. He has made huge strides since leaving Blackburn Rovers in 2024.

The 21-year-old has helped the Eagles win the FA Cup and Community Shield in his 18 months at the club.

A deal for Wharton would be difficult as Palace will demand an enormous transfer fee.

Despite this, United should test their resolve before the summer transfer window closes.

Stats from Transfermarkt.