Alan Smith Advocates for Adam Wharton as Casemiro's Replacement at Manchester United
Former Manchester United forward Alan Smith has publicly endorsed Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as the natural successor to Casemiro, who is set to depart Old Trafford when his contract expires this summer. The Brazilian, signed from Real Madrid for £70 million in 2022, has been a pivotal figure in midfield at age 33, leaving a significant void that United must address in their ongoing rebuild.
Midfield Overhaul and Transfer Targets
Manchester United are actively pursuing midfield reinforcements, with Casemiro's impending exit heightening the urgency. The club previously attempted to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton and retains interest in him, while Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is also considered a top target. However, Smith highlights Wharton as a standout option due to his extensive experience in English football, having played over 150 games for Blackburn Rovers and Crystal Palace, along with European and international exposure with England.
Smith, who himself transitioned from striker to midfielder under Sir Alex Ferguson in 2005 to replace Roy Keane, argues that Wharton's discipline and positional awareness make him more suitable for the deep-lying role than Kobbie Mainoo. I could see him as a natural replacement, Smith stated in an interview with Metro via 666Casino. Playing in one of the deeper positions would probably be more suitable to that than Kobbie Mainoo at this moment in time.
Rashford's Potential Return and Future Prospects
In related news, Marcus Rashford has excelled on loan at Barcelona this season, with the Spanish club keen to make his move permanent. However, if Michael Carrick secures the permanent managerial role at United, he is reportedly interested in bringing Rashford back to Manchester. Smith believes Rashford could still have a future at Old Trafford, contingent on the player's willingness to return. I'm sure if Marcus Rashford wants to come back and play for Man United, I'm sure the manager would love to have him back, Smith added, noting Rashford's goal-scoring ability and attacking flair.
As United prepare for a crucial summer, Smith's insights underscore the strategic importance of replacing Casemiro with a player like Wharton, who combines youth, experience, and tactical fit. The club's decisions in the transfer market will be pivotal in shaping their midfield for the upcoming season.
