Manchester United aims to extend their unbeaten streak to six matches when they face Everton at Old Trafford on October 30, 2023. Following a tumultuous start to the season under manager Ruben Amorim, the atmosphere surrounding the club has significantly improved since their last defeat in September. Although recent draws against Tottenham and Nottingham Forest did not elevate spirits, United’s victories over Brighton, Liverpool, and Sunderland have positioned them seventh in the Premier League. They are now just two points behind third-placed Chelsea, and a win could propel them into Champions League spots for the first time since August 2024.
United’s confidence is bolstered by their historical success against Everton. The teams played to a draw in their last encounter last February, but prior to that, United enjoyed a six-match winning streak against the Toffees, with their last defeat dating back to April 2022. The club is eager to capitalize on this momentum as the Premier League returns this weekend.
Transfer Targets: Adam Wharton and Antoine Semenyo
The latest reports indicate that United is keenly interested in Adam Wharton, the 21-year-old midfielder from Crystal Palace, as they look to strengthen their squad. Wharton has made a significant impact since joining Palace last season, even earning a spot on the England national team, where he showcased his skills in a recent 2-0 victory over Albania. His ability to make forward passes has drawn praise from former United players Roy Keane and Rio Ferdinand.
Keane emphasized Wharton’s forward-thinking approach, stating, “What I like about him is his first option seems to look at it is, ‘Can I pass it forward?’ That’s a big strength to have.” Ferdinand echoed these sentiments, suggesting that Wharton’s passing range makes him an ideal candidate to enhance United’s midfield. “I would sign another central midfielder to play alongside Manuel Ugarte. You know who I would go for? Adam Wharton,” he noted on his YouTube channel.
However, acquiring Wharton will not be straightforward. Crystal Palace is expected to demand around £100 million for the midfielder, who is under contract until 2029, giving them leverage in negotiations.
Meanwhile, former Arsenal player Bacary Sagna has urged United to activate Antoine Semenyo‘s £65 million release clause in January. The Bournemouth attacker has been in remarkable form this season, netting six goals and providing three assists in just 11 Premier League matches. Sagna believes Semenyo could help United “get back to the top end of the league” and become a pivotal player for the club.
United’s recruitment strategy appears focused on players with Premier League experience, as exemplified by their recent signings of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha. Semenyo fits this profile perfectly, given his versatility in attacking positions. Nevertheless, United will face competition for his signature, with clubs like Liverpool and Tottenham also expressing interest.
As the club navigates this crucial phase of the season and potential transfer activity, fans and analysts alike are keenly observing how these developments unfold. United’s commitment to strengthening their squad could play a vital role in their pursuit of success this season.
