Adam Wharton. (Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Liverpool are interested in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, but could face competition from Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid. The Daily Mail reports that the Englishman is “adored” by all three clubs and is believed to be valued by Palace at £60m.
Wharton has made his rounds in the headlines this season for both his performances and for his links to big money transfers this summer. The 21 year old continues to be linked to a host of clubs – with Arsenal, Man United, Man City, and Chelsea also reportedly tracking the player.
Wharton has experienced a somewhat meteoric rise after joining Palace from Championship side Blackburn in 2o23. Primarily a holding midfielder, Wharton has been lauded for his awareness and tackling ability.
He snuffs out danger for his side, covering ground and breaking up attacks with his presence in the middle of the park.
Wharton on radar of several clubs
Now a full England international, Wharton continues to see his stock rise. He has made 20 appearances in the Premier League so far this season, impressing once more despite missing a large portion through injuries.
Real Madrid chief scout Juni Calafat is said to be a huge admirer of the player and earlier this season sanctioned members of his team to watch the player.
Los Blancos are said to be in the market for midfield reinforcements to freshen up an aging side. The contracts of Luca Modric and Lucas Vazquez are nearing expiration, while the future of Eduardo Camavinga is also uncertain. Madrid could see Wharton as a long term piece to the midfield puzzle.
Newly crowned La Liga champions Barcelona may not have as large a need for Wharton but could see him as a squad addition. Barcelona rolled to a league and Copa Del Ray double, but faltered in the Champions League. Injuries and fatigue played a roll, as Barca’s squad was stretched thin in the latter stages of the competition.
It is unlikely Wharton would usurp any of the established midfield trio of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Dani Olmo, but could be a valuable rotation player.
Liverpool are the other league champions chasing Wharton, as the new Premier League winners are set to heavily recruit this summer. He may find getting into the XI to be difficult at Liverpool as well, with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch proving key men in the midfield, but could prove a useful option in rotation.
Harvey Elliot is known to be considering his future after seeing his minutes dwindle under Arne Slot, while Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo have had to settle for bit part roles as well. Wharton could provide valuable cover for Slot’s key men.
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