Liverpool and Man Utd Join Race for Wharton as Palace Stand Firm
Wharton attracting elite Premier League interest
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton has rapidly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most coveted young talents, with Liverpool and Newcastle United now joining Manchester United in pursuit of the 21-year-old. Chelsea also remain firmly in the picture, ensuring competition for his signature is set to be fierce.
Wharton, who made the step up from Blackburn Rovers in February 2024 for £18 million, has adapted seamlessly to life at Selhurst Park. His maturity in possession, ability to control tempo, and positional awareness have underlined why he is already viewed as a midfielder of rare quality. Those attributes have inevitably drawn comparisons to some of the division’s established names, while his performances have made him integral to Palace’s midfield balance.
Man Utd long-term admiration tested
Manchester United have monitored Wharton for several months and regard him as a key figure in their wider midfield rebuild. Sources suggest United view him as someone who could anchor their midfield for years to come.
However, Palace’s stance remains consistent. The club are reluctant to sanction a departure midway through the season, particularly with their Premier League status not yet secure. Wharton is valued at around £60 million, and Palace believe any discussions are more likely to take place in the summer of 2026 rather than the upcoming January window.
Liverpool and Newcastle widen competition
Liverpool’s interest reflects new manager Arne Slot’s commitment to reshaping his midfield options. Wharton’s versatility, with the capacity to operate as both a deep-lying playmaker and a more advanced contributor, aligns with Slot’s demands for fluidity and adaptability in his squad. The Merseyside club see him as a player capable of adding depth while competing directly for a starting role.
At Newcastle, Eddie Howe is targeting homegrown quality to strengthen his midfield core. Wharton’s profile makes him an appealing candidate, complementing Bruno Guimarães while also offering defensive security and creativity. With Newcastle’s long-term project focused on sustainable squad building, Wharton represents both a footballing and strategic fit.
Chelsea’s interest cannot be discounted either. Their recruitment has consistently leaned towards securing young, high-potential talent, and while they already possess significant depth in central areas, Wharton could enhance their competition and squad flexibility.
Transfer saga set to intensify
Palace’s determination to resist offers during January is unlikely to quell speculation. Manchester United’s pursuit of alternative targets, such as Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, could influence the dynamics, while rival clubs will continue monitoring developments closely.
For United, the challenge is compounded by the likely departure of Casemiro at the end of the season, with interest in the Brazilian coming from Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Flamengo, Palmeiras and Sao Paulo. United’s planning under Ruben Amorim points towards significant midfield reinforcements, heightening the relevance of Wharton and other emerging targets.
As the January transfer window nears, Wharton’s future promises to be a defining subplot. Palace hold the cards, but the combined interest of Liverpool, Man Utd, Newcastle and Chelsea ensures his name will remain firmly at the centre of discussions across the Premier League.
