Fraizer Campbell has backed Chelsea to renew their interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton when the January transfer window opens.
Chelsea explored a move for the England international during the summer as Xabi Alonso reshaped his midfield options, but Palace made it clear Wharton was not available before the deadline.
That stance did not stop speculation around his long-term future.
Campbell now believes Chelsea should return for the 22-year-old, with the former Crystal Palace striker identifying Stamford Bridge as a possible destination when the transfer market reopens.
Why Adam Wharton fits Chelsea
Wharton would give Alonso a different type of midfielder.
He is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, can progress possession quickly from deeper areas and offers the sort of passing range that could help Chelsea control games more effectively.
ReadChelsea has previously analysed why Wharton suits Alonso’s midfield structure, while the Blues also faced competition for the midfielder during the summer window.
Chelsea’s midfield situation has changed since then.
Enzo Fernandez has left Stamford Bridge, the proposed move for Lamine Camara collapsed and Moises Caicedo’s injury problems have already exposed a lack of depth in the position.
Wharton would therefore address a genuine squad need.
Crystal Palace remain major obstacle
A January deal would still be difficult.
Crystal Palace rejected summer interest from Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool, with The Guardian reporting that the Eagles considered Wharton central to their plans.
There is currently no indication Palace have changed that position.
Campbell’s comments therefore do not mean talks have restarted, but they have placed Wharton’s Chelsea links back into focus ahead of January.
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