Published Aug 18, 2026, 4:17 PM GMT+1

The Belgian has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most impressive operators, with such a deal mooted as one of the bargains of the window to date.

The Red Devils faithful have already had the opportunity to witness the 29-year-old’s talents, as he’s starred in clashes against AC Milan, PSG and Leeds United.

He will no doubt be one of the first names on the teamsheet for the club’s season opener this weekend, but there’s no denying Michael Carrick’s men are in need of added reinforcements.

Why United need added signings before the end of the window

Until now, United have only made three signings this summer, with Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Karl Darlow all arriving at Old Trafford ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

However, despite improving key areas of the squad already, there’s no debating that other departments are in desperate need of added investment in the weeks ahead.

The left-back situation has become a concern to Carrick over recent outings, with Luke Shaw appearing to be massively off the pace and struggling to impress.

As a result, INEOS desperately need to delve into the market and land a talented option - even if a move for Lewis Hall appears impossible throughout the current window.

United’s attacking department could also be bolstered before the window closes - in an attempt to help balance the demands of Premier League and European football.

Marcus Rashford’s return to first-team action is a welcome sight, but the potential departure of Joshua Zirkzee has heightened the need for an extra centre-forward.

However, despite the other areas of the pitch needing to be improved, there’s no ruling out the possibility of a third midfielder moving to Old Trafford.

How Man United can land an instant Tielemans upgrade

Despite moves for Santos and Tielemans in recent months, INEOS appear to be firmly targeting a third new body at the heart of Carrick’s United squad.

The likes of Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga continue to be linked with the Red Devils, but such deals could be tricky to complete given their desire to remain in Madrid.

However, they’re not the only names being considered at present, with Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton once again emerging as a possible transfer target.

Journalist Alex Crook has spoken about the Red Devils’ interest in landing another midfielder, stating live on talkSPORT: “They are one of a number of Premier League clubs offered Eduardo Camavinga.

“Long-term targets include Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba, so I do expect one big signing at least between now and September the 1st for United.”

The Englishman was on their radar last summer, but a genuine opportunity to land the 22-year-old could unfold before the window closes in just two weeks time - as previous reports claim he could be available for £80m.

He’s established himself as a consistent top-division operator over recent seasons, with his stats from last season showcasing why he would be an upgrade on new addition, Tielemans.

Wharton managed to create an impressive tally of 1.6 chances per 90 in the Premier League last term, a tally higher than that of the £35m summer addition.

It also ranked him above 85% of other midfielders across Europe’s top-five leagues - subsequently highlighting his tremendous ability to dictate the play from deep-lying positions.

His 52% dribble success rate - a tally also higher than Tielemans - further showcases his talent with the ball at his feet, which could see him be a key asset for the Red Devils upon any move.

However, even without the ball, the Palace star managed to better the Belgian, as he made more interceptions and ball recoveries in England’s top-flight last term.

His quality at both ends of the pitch could be valuable to Carrick’s men in 2026/27 and beyond, with the club landing a “world-class” talent - as dubbed by Statman Dave.

The 22-year-old would likely be a heavy investment, but it could be massively worthwhile for the Red Devils in the immediate and long-term future.

His dominance over new addition Tielemans is there for all to see, with INEOS desperately needing to make a move for his signature before the window closes.