While United are not discounting looking abroad in their search for a new lynchpin, the club would prefer Premier League experience. Deciding to go for proven players would certainly limit United's options, and ultimately increase the finances attached to those deals. Baleba, Wharton and Tonali are also among the players United's recruitment team have discussed and will continue to explore. One well-placed source has told BBC Sport that, via an intermediary, United have made a tentative enquiry about Brighton midfielder Baleba in recent months. Crystal Palace's Wharton is certainly admired at United, but whether he fits the sort of profile the club are looking for is unclear.

Source: BBC March 19, 2026 16:24 UTC