If Manchester City want to sign another midfielder one player stands out as the prime candidate

Manchester City have already signed Marcus Bettinelli, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Tijjani Reijnders during the summer transfer window, giving Pep Guardiola's squad a new look. However, the club might enter the market for another midfielder if either Ilkay Gundogan or Mateo Kovacic departs this summer.

Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is identified as the ideal signing for Manchester City should Gundogan or Kovacic leave. Reports from CaughtOffside, citing Football Insider, indicate City's interest in Wharton, though Crystal Palace would demand £80 million for their key player, making him an expensive acquisition.

Wharton is highlighted as one of the top English talents in the Premier League, possessing a wide range of passing and brilliant ability to pick out a pass, especially notable given his young age. His ambidextrous passing and elite game awareness, allowing him to read the game effectively before receiving possession, are significant strengths. These attributes are seen as qualities that could develop further under Guardiola.

Additionally, Wharton is strong in challenges, typically plays as a number eight, and his reading of the game aids his defensive work. His English nationality is also a major incentive for City, as he would fulfill their need for homegrown players, potentially replacing either Gundogan or Kovacic.

Overall, Wharton is presented as the ideal player for City's midfield, seemingly suited to Guardiola's style and possessing significant potential at 21 years old. However, whether City pursues him depends on Gundogan or Kovacic leaving and Crystal Palace's willingness to sell this summer. The article concludes that Wharton ticks every box to be a City player, suggesting the club might consider the move in the future if not this summer.