Image Credits: Imago Images
Adam Wharton will be a name to follow closely for Liverpool fans this summer transfer window
The 21-year-old midfielder has been turning heads across the Premier League since his £22 million move from Blackburn Rovers to Selhurst Park in January 2024. What many initially viewed as a promising Championship talent taking a step up has transformed into one of the most sought-after young midfielders in world football.
DaveOCKOP reported in January Wharton is Liverpool’s top midfield target, and that fresh talks have taken place recently with Liverpool now confident that Wharton could end up at Anfield.
However, Palace’s message over any sale could hardly be firmer. They want to keep the 22-year-old for at least another season, and compete in the Europa League in 2026/27.
The England international has a contract running until 2029 at Selhurst Park.
Now according to the Athletic’s Matt Woosnam, Crystal Palace will use Elliot Anderson’s projected £120 million + move to Manchester City as a yardstick:
“Adam Wharton is sure to have interest this summer. Palace would only sell him for a hefty fee and any price for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is likely to be a yardstick, although Wharton will not attract offers as high.”
“Selling would fund the squad rejuvenation for the next cycle, but Palace would prefer to keep the 22-year-old for another year.”
With Anderson’s projected fee north of £120 million being used as the benchmark, it seems clubs are being warned that Wharton will still sit firmly in the elite‑bracket of midfield prices.
Realistic estimates would put him somewhere in the £60–90 million pound range, with some reports suggesting Palace would only start to soften at around the £70–80 million mark.
Crystal Palace’s willingness to negotiate may be influenced by financial realities. Blackburn Rovers are entitled to a significant sell-on percentage from any future sale, meaning Palace will want to maximize their return.