Liverpool have intensified their efforts to sign Crystal Palace midfield mainstay Adam Wharton, who is also on Real Madrid’s wishlist.
Adam Wharton was already on the wishlist of some of the biggest clubs in Europe last summer, but Crystal Palace somehow managed to hold onto him. However, that is unlikely to be the case with Liverpool and Real Madrid after his signature this summer.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Liverpool have stepped up their pursuit of the Crystal Palace defensive midfielder. The Reds are looking to beat Real Madrid in the race. They are keen on revamping their midfield following a disappointing campaign, and Wharton is a top target for them.
Following an impressive and meteoric rise at Blackburn Rovers, Adam Wharton made the move to Selhurst Park in January 2024. The Englishman hardly took any time to adjust to his new club, and he has already established himself as one of their mainstays.
A host of top clubs wanted him last summer, but Crystal Palace managed to block an exit. However, that could change this summer. But with the Englishman’s contract running until the summer of 2029, they will certainly demand a fortune.
While he prefers playing as a defensive midfielder, Wharton is capable enough to take up any role in the centre of the park. The 22-year-old is a complete midfielder with great defensive awareness and ball distribution skills.
Liverpool are ready to push hard for Wharton
Liverpool have already carried out significant background checks on the England international, as they look to step up their pursuit. After spending a fortune last summer, the Reds are set to go trophyless, and they have started making plans to ensure they can bounce back.
Arne Slot wants to revamp his midfield, and Wharton is their priority target. They want to bring in the English sensation to compete with Ryan Gravenberch for the holding role. It will also allow Slot to use the Dutch international in advanced roles.
With Alexis Mac Allister’s future uncertain and Curtis Jones likely to leave, the 22-year-old could prove to be a very valuable addition to their squad. However, Liverpool will have to battle Real Madrid, who are also keen on his signature.
The Spanish giants have been looking for a similar profile for some time after losing Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in successive summers, and they could go all out for Wharton when the transfer window reopens. Liverpool are working hard to ensure they can lure him to Anfield. The Blackburn-born midfielder could actually prefer returning to the North West, something that could work in the Merseyside club’s favour.
However, Liverpool will have to fork out a massive fee to get a deal over the line. Crystal Palace want something around £70 million for the 22-year-old English international, which would be a club-record sale for the South London club.
