Chelsea face battle for Adam Wharton as Man Utd join £86m race
Chelsea face fresh competition for Adam Wharton after Manchester United reportedly revived their interest in the Crystal Palace midfielder.
The Blues have tracked Wharton for several months as Xabi Alonso looks at ways to strengthen his midfield.
However, United are now back in the race after previously cooling their interest because of similarities between Wharton and Kobbie Mainoo.
TEAMtalk reports that Manchester United have renewed their interest in Wharton, while Chelsea are becoming more aggressive in their own pursuit.
Crystal Palace are understood to value the England international at around €100million (£86m).
🚨 Chelsea could still make a move for Alex Scott, while the club have also recently spoken to Crystal Palace about Adam Wharton.
Both midfielders remain potential options for the Blues.
(@siphillipssport) #CFC pic.twitter.com/7pduHI099d
— ChelseaReport (@chelsreport_) August 6, 2026
United are reportedly prepared to value Wharton closer to £70m, leaving a sizeable gap between their position and Palace’s asking price.
Chelsea could therefore have an opportunity if they decide to push harder for the 22-year-old.
The report says the Blues may first need to reduce the size of Alonso’s squad before committing to another major signing. Chelsea have already made significant changes this summer and still have several players whose futures remain uncertain.
Wharton would also be joining an increasingly competitive midfield.
ReadChelsea reported earlier today that Romeo Lavia has completed an important 90 minutes under Alonso. The Belgian is competing with Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Dario Essugo for minutes in central areas.
Wharton would offer a different profile.
The Palace midfielder is particularly comfortable receiving possession from deep and moving the ball through pressure. United scouts reportedly view him as a left-footed controller capable of setting the tempo and progressing possession.
Chelsea’s interest is not new.
ReadChelsea analysed Wharton’s potential fit under Alonso in June, highlighting how his passing range and ability to dictate play could suit the Spaniard’s midfield structure.
Real Madrid are also reported to be monitoring Wharton, although the Spanish giants currently have other priorities.
There is no indication Chelsea or United have met Palace’s asking price.
The return of United to the race does, however, give Chelsea another major rival to consider if they decide Wharton is the midfielder they want before the window closes.
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