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Man City have cooled their interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, according to The Athletic reporter Sam Lee.
The England international has been regularly linked with a transfer to to Etihad Stadium in recent seasons, with Chelsea and Liverpool also among his suitors.
However, when Lee shared an update for the Transfer DealSheet column, he also posted a reply on X, revealing the news about Wharton:
No Wharton
— Sam Lee (@SamLee) August 11, 2026
It appears that a move for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez has been prioritised by head coach Enzo Maresca and Director of Football Hugo Viana.
Wharton has been on the radar for two years
City’s interest in the midfielder was first reported in the summer of 2024, following an impressive first six months at Palace that led to his inclusion in the England squad for Euro 2024.
Pep Guardiola did not hide his admiration either, declaring back in April 2025 that Wharton is an “excellent holding midfielder”.
Even earlier this year, it was reported that the Cityzens had been making enquiries about the 22-year-old’s availability, but it seems Guardiola’s departure has led to a change in plans.
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What is the latest on Man City’s pursuit of Fernandez?
No official bid has been submitted for the Argentinian international, and it is believed that any approach would depend on Rodri sealing his move to Barcelona.
Even if that does happen, though, Fernandez’s asking price remains a major obstacle, with Chelsea having not backed down on their £120m valuation, despite the player’s clear determination to leave Stamford Bridge.
There is always a chance that City do give up on Fernandez and pivot back towards Wharton, but for the time being, Maresca is clearly hoping to be reunited with his former player at the Etihad.