Wharton, 22, is widely expected to leave Selhurst Park at the end of the season. Manchester United have identified him as a priority target, with reports suggesting a deal in the region of £60-65 million could be agreed should United secure Champions League qualification — a condition believed to be part of a gentleman's agreement between Wharton and Crystal Palace.
Meulensteen, speaking on talkSPORT's Sports Breakfast, pointed to the need for a midfield partner alongside Kobbie Mainoo as United's most pressing summer business. "Everybody knows that Casemiro is leaving," he said. "So it's really great to see the resurgence of Kobbie Mainoo, because we all knew what a good player he was, and he shows that now week in, week out under Michael."
He was direct about who he wants to see come in. "I think Manchester United need a really good other midfielder in the middle of the park. I'm a big fan of Adam Wharton, because that is the type of player that I think can link the back to the front very, very quickly."
Meulensteen highlighted how Wharton's passing range would unlock United's attacking options. "He launches those attacking threats on Mbeumo and Cunha and Fernandes and all those players, so that is what I would go for. There's other names being obviously thrown around in that area of the field, but I think Adam Wharton would be a really good fit."
Wharton has drawn comparisons to Carrick himself since arriving at Palace from Blackburn in January 2024, and is understood to favour a move to a Champions League club. United, Liverpool and Real Madrid are all monitoring his situation, but reports suggest United are currently best placed to land him.
With Casemiro's contract expiring in July, the clock is ticking. United's midfield rebuild could define their next chapter — and Meulensteen is clear about where he would start.