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Wharton’s rapid rise at Crystal Palace
Adam Wharton’s trajectory over the past two years has been nothing short of remarkable. Since arriving at Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in January 2024, the 21-year-old midfielder has become one of the most coveted young players in Europe. Nearly 50 appearances, six assists, and a growing role with England have propelled him into the spotlight.
Wharton’s ability to dictate play, recover possession, and operate with composure under pressure has made him a standout figure in the Premier League. For Palace, he has been a linchpin in midfield, combining defensive resilience with the intelligence to progress the ball effectively. It is precisely this profile that has drawn attention from Europe’s elite.
Liverpool takes pole position
While interest from Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester United has been genuine, Wharton’s preference is clear: he wants Liverpool. Sources close to the player indicate that he sees Anfield as the ideal place to continue his development, working under Arne Slot and within a system built to maximise midfield control.
Liverpool’s need is obvious. Questions have lingered over balance in their midfield, particularly in defensive transitions. Slot views Wharton as a solution capable of strengthening the spine of his side. For the player, remaining in the Premier League allows him to grow in an environment he already understands, avoiding the adaptation risk that comes with moving abroad.
Real Madrid and others still in contention
Real Madrid had hoped to lure Wharton to Spain, identifying him as cover for Aurélien Tchouaméni and as support during Eduardo Camavinga’s fitness struggles. Yet the midfielder’s decision to prioritise a Premier League stay complicates their pursuit. Madrid remain attentive, but they are aware that Liverpool’s strong position may be difficult to overturn.
Chelsea’s interest is consistent with their broader transfer strategy. The club has stockpiled young midfield talent in recent seasons but remains keen to add Wharton to the mix, even with Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo as established starters. Manchester United, too, view Wharton as part of a longer-term rebuild. With Casemiro nearing the twilight of his career and Manuel Ugarte failing to settle, Old Trafford scouts see the Palace man as a natural successor.
Crystal Palace hold firm on valuation
For now, Crystal Palace maintain control of the situation. The South London club have set an asking price of between £60 million and £70 million, a figure that reflects both Wharton’s current influence and his future potential. It is a significant outlay, but in the context of modern Premier League transfers, it is considered realistic.
What makes this situation particularly notable is Wharton’s stance. By signalling his preference for Liverpool, the midfielder has given the Merseyside club a crucial advantage in negotiations. Should a deal be struck, it would represent one of the defining moves of the 2026 transfer window and a significant statement of intent from Liverpool as they look to re-establish themselves at the top of English and European football.
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