It’s becoming a common theme that Crystal Palace players are linked with moves to so-called bigger clubs, with Adam Wharton the most sought-after star of them all.
Since Crystal Palace won the FA Cup and Community Shield, and put together an incredible unbeaten run in the process, the Eagles have really caught the attention of the footballing world.
Oliver Glasner’s record as Crystal Palace manager has seen him heavily linked with Manchester United, while the likes of Marc Guehi, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Adam Wharton are all mooted as transfer targets for other clubs.
It’s thought Palace may offer Wharton a new contract with a £75m release clause. But, whether the player would accept that or not, chairman Steve Parish has fired a warning to any club trying to sign the star midfielder.
Steve Parish looks on before a Premier League clash between Crystal Palace and Wolves
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Steve Parish discusses Adam Wharton speculation
In a new interview with talkSPORT and Henry Winter, Steve Parish very candidly discussed how Wharton may be feeling about his future. Parish also sent a subtle warning to clubs like Man Utd who may be considering a bid for the midfielder.
He said: “I think Adam at some point will want to play either in the Champions League with us – if we can make that happen – or probably with another club. He’s an extraordinary talent.
“I think he’s very committed to the club. If Manchester United want Adam Wharton, there’s nothing really surprising about that. The fact of the matter is he’s got a long contract to run.”
Wharton’s current deal already runs all the way through to 2029, so there is very little pressure on Crystal Palace to sell the player any time soon.
Adam Wharton during Crystal Palace v FC Nantes - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images
Adam Wharton would be wise to ignore Manchester United
The idea of Wharton leaving Crystal Palace to join Manchester United is rather odd, really. Indeed, if he’s looking to play Champions League football, you’d imagine sticking with the Eagles would be a better option than joining the chaotic environment at Old Trafford.
If you were talking about this ten or 20 years ago, the move to Man Utd would be a no-brainer. But, unless something drastically changes there under Ruben Amorim (or without him), there’s every chance Palace will finish above the Red Devils in the Premier League this season.
Troy Deeney may not be sold on Wharton yet, but most pundits and professionals can see the 21-year-old is an absolute star. He’s already dictating games, and the scary thing is he will only get better.
Continuing to thrive at Palace would do Wharton’s career wonders. He’s playing incredibly well, in a system that suits his style of play, and with players and a manager who know how to get the best out of him.
If and when he does move on, it’ll be to a far more stable and exciting project than Manchester United, that’s for sure.