Liverpool’s transfer business this summer has shown a willingness to think creatively in order to secure priority targets, and that approach could again come into play as the Reds continue planning for the future of their midfield.
While Andoni Iraola is still assessing his options during pre-season, the club are continuing to explore opportunities that could give Liverpool an advantage in negotiations for some of England’s brightest young talents.
One player who has consistently featured on Liverpool’s shortlist is Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.
The 22-year-old has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most composed midfielders since arriving at Selhurst Park, with his intelligence on the ball and passing range making him an attractive long-term option for the Reds.
Now, Liverpool are understood to be looking into the logistics of including Harvey Elliott in a deal for Wharton.
According to Danny Gallagher, a columnist for This Is Anfield who previously worked for Mail Sport and Sky Sports, discussions are centred on whether Elliott could move to Crystal Palace as part of an agreement for the England international, although Iraola still wants to fully assess the midfielder before deciding whether an exit is necessary.
Should all parties reach an agreement, the situation is thought to have the potential to move quickly.
Elliott’s future has been the subject of growing speculation in recent weeks despite his obvious talent.
The 23-year-old has struggled to nail down a guaranteed starting place at Liverpool amid fierce competition, and a disappointing loan spell at Aston Villa last season has not helped his push for a consistent starting spot at Anfield.
Despite this, Liverpool know that he remains a highly-rated asset capable of attracting significant interest from Premier League clubs.
For Crystal Palace, Harvey Elliott could represent an exciting addition if Wharton were to depart, while Liverpool could potentially reduce the overall cost of a deal for one of the most sought-after midfielders in English football.
Any agreement would still require plenty of work, with the Eagles under no pressure to sell Adam Wharton and Andoni Iraola yet to make a final decision on Harvey Elliott’s role.
However, Liverpool exploring a player-plus-cash structure is a development worth watching as the transfer window gathers pace.
Understand Liverpool are looking into the logistics to see Harvey Elliott move to Crystal Palace as part of an Adam Wharton agreement, despite Iraola still wanting to run the rule over whether an exit is necessary. Something that could move quickly if all parties agree.
— Danny Gallagher (@Danny7Gallagher) July 5, 2026