Manchester United went into this summer knowing they needed to strengthen their midfield, as Casemiro had already confirmed he would leave Old Trafford at the end of the season. 

Manuel Ugarte's ACL injury at the World Cup with Uruguay seems to have complicated matters, though, with United now seemingly stalling on a third midfield addition. 

Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have already moved to Old Trafford from Chelsea and Aston Villa, respectively. They cost a combined £85 million, which United seemed willing to pay for Mateus Fernandes before he chose Tottenham Hotspur. 

United have been linked with countless midfielders this summer, but a name who has not been mentioned for some time is Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton. 

Wharton impressed in the Premier League last term, but has yet to find a move away from Palace, despite head coach Oliver Glasner leaving Selhurst Park in favour of Nottingham Forest. 

With two midfielders through the door, Manchester United fans seem to be demanding one more before priorities can be moved elsewhere. 

The return to the Champions League will test United's depth in the position, so adding another to the ranks seems sensible, especially after Mason Mount's injury scare against Paris Saint-Germain. 

Caught Offside have reported that Manchester United remain interested in Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, but their high price tag has stopped negotiations from proceeding. Palace are demanding just under £86 million for the former Blackburn Rovers midfielder. 

Chelsea and Real Madrid are also interested in Wharton, according to the report, but Madrid are focusing on other players in the position (Rodri). Chelsea, though, seem to be leading the race, as Wharton is a “priority” for Xabi Alonso. 

They have reportedly resumed talks with Crystal Palace, but need to trim their squad before adding another player. This leaves United with time to step up their pursuit if they feel Wharton is the man for their midfield. 

While there are other positions that Manchester United need to address before the end of the transfer window, midfield should be their top priority. 

Santos and Tielemans are two great additions, but as it stands, United have just those two, Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo in central midfield – that is not enough. 

Tyler and Jack Fletcher may be looking to contribute too, but they should not be relied upon so heavily, given their lack of senior experience. 

Manchester United could play over 20 more matches next season than they did last term (40), with at least eight more guaranteed in the Champions League. 

Michael Carrick will need another midfield if he is to restore the club to their rightful position at the top of the Premier League.