United rule out David Alaba signing as £80m Wharton prediction emerges

Manchester United have ruled out a move for free agent David Alaba, with the club’s focus firmly fixed on younger targets rather than high-profile names in the twilight of their careers, according to Manchester Evening News correspondent Tyrone Marshall.

Marshall confirmed the decision during a supporter Q&A, addressing why United were not pursuing Alaba alongside fellow former Real Madrid defenders Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal. The stance reflects a broader philosophical shift at Old Trafford, where the era of marquee signings such as Bastian Schweinsteiger, Edinson Cavani, and the ill-fated return of Cristiano Ronaldo has been firmly left behind.

Manager Michael Carrick has already reshaped United’s midfield this summer, completing three significant additions: Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, Andrey Santos from Chelsea, and Carlos Baleba from Brighton. The trio are expected to provide both depth and quality across what promises to be a demanding campaign in four competitions.

Despite those arrivals, United ended the transfer window without addressing their defensive vulnerabilities from last season. Reports suggest the club is now considering a move for a high-profile former Real Madrid centre-back, though no deal has been confirmed.

A fourth midfield signing could also follow next summer, with former Chelsea and Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel tipping Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton as United’s primary target. The 22-year-old impressed throughout his nearly three-year spell at Selhurst Park and earned recognition at international level with England, drawing interest from United, Chelsea, and Liverpool over the past year.

Mikel, speaking during a live Q&A on The Obi One Podcast, was unequivocal in his assessment. “I love him! I love Adam Wharton, I’m a big, big fan,” he said. “I think he’s going to go places, though. I think next season he will leave Crystal Palace. I think they want to keep him for one more season, and I see him going to Manchester United next season.”

Crystal Palace successfully retained Wharton this summer, but Mikel’s prediction — which aligns with valuations placing the midfielder at around £80m — suggests the club’s grip on their prized asset may only last one more season.