Liverpool fans know the feeling all too well.

A promising young midfielder emerges, their club is linked, but then a rival swoops in.

It happened with Moises Caicedo, who chose Chelsea last summer.

It could happen again.

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The Reds need to refresh their midfield due to increasing injury concerns, and recent reports suggested they were tracking a rising Premier League star.

But now, another top club is in the mix, and it could complicate things.

Manchester United are in a tough spot.

Their midfield lacks balance, and they need new energy in the center of the park.

Their season has been disappointing, and new boss Ruben Amorim has made it clear – changes are coming.

“In 10 games in the Premier League, we won two.

Imagine what this is for a fan of Manchester United.”

“Imagine what this is for me,” Amorim admitted in January.

“So we are getting a new coach that is losing more than the last coach.

I have full knowledge of that.”

The frustration is obvious.

United need a fresh start.

That is why they are reportedly targeting a player Liverpool have been watching closely.

Manchester United ‘likely option’ for Liverpool linked midfielder

According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United “now look like an increasingly likely option” for Adam Wharton.

The 21-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder has impressed since joining from Blackburn Rovers last January.

Palace paid £22 million for him, and it has been a bargain.

He has played 29 times for the club and even earned an England call-up.

Liverpool scouts have reportedly tracked Wharton for months.

He fits the mold of a Arne Slot-style midfielder – energetic, intelligent, and always looking to progress the ball.

For Liverpool, Wharton would be an exciting addition.

But now, Manchester United are monitoring the situation.

Their interest is real, and with Juventus also in the mix, Liverpool may need to act fast.

Wharton would be a great fit at Anfield.

But whether he ends up at Old Trafford remains to be seen.

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