Liverpool and Real Madrid poised for £150m Wharton transfer battle
Liverpool’s resurgence under Arne Slot could soon extend to another headline-grabbing move in the transfer market, as the club prepares to challenge Real Madrid for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. The 21-year-old England international has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young players, and his form has sparked interest across the continent.
Wharton attracting elite interest
After a bold summer that saw Liverpool sign high-calibre players such as Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Milos Kerkez, the club’s recruitment team appears intent on continuing its pursuit of world-class talent. Wharton, who has flourished under Oliver Glasner at Crystal Palace, is viewed as one of the brightest prospects in English football.
According to Football Insider, Wharton will not be allowed to leave Selhurst Park in January, but the summer window could ignite a record-breaking auction. Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness described the midfielder as a “£150 million type player,” reflecting both his quality and market value. Wyness added that Wharton “looks destined to be a star for England” and is expected to play a major role in next year’s World Cup in the United States.
That valuation, if realised, would make Wharton one of the most expensive players in football history — surpassing Liverpool’s previous record deals for Wirtz and Isak and trailing only Neymar and Kylian Mbappé globally.
Liverpool’s recruitment strategy and fit
Liverpool’s modern transfer approach is defined by calculated aggression: investing heavily in players who combine youth, technical excellence and versatility. Wharton fits that profile perfectly. A composed ball-carrier with intelligence beyond his years, he has impressed Premier League analysts with his control under pressure and ability to dictate tempo from deep positions.
Slot’s tactical system relies on midfielders who can transition quickly from defence to attack while maintaining defensive solidity. Wharton’s balance of energy and composure makes him an ideal candidate for such a role, not dissimilar to Ryan Gravenberch but with a distinctly English edge.
For Liverpool, signing Wharton would also strengthen their homegrown quota — an increasingly significant factor in squad planning under Premier League and UEFA regulations.
Real Madrid’s growing interest
While Liverpool’s admiration for Wharton is clear, they face a formidable rival in Real Madrid. Club president Florentino Pérez has a long history of securing the world’s most exciting talents, and Wharton’s blend of technical skill and tactical awareness aligns with Madrid’s evolving philosophy under Carlo Ancelotti.
The Spanish giants are preparing for a midfield transition, with veterans Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos approaching the twilight of their careers. Wharton’s arrival would continue Madrid’s tradition of recruiting elite young midfielders following the signings of Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga.
For Liverpool, competing financially with Real Madrid will be challenging, especially if Palace hold firm on their valuation. Yet the player’s potential interest in remaining in England and developing under Slot could play a pivotal role.
Financial realities and transfer outlook
A £150 million fee would represent a serious commitment from any club. Liverpool have shown restraint in recent years, focusing on sustainability and strategic reinvestment rather than unrestrained spending. However, should Wharton become available, his long-term value and fit within the club’s project might justify stretching those limits.
Palace are under no pressure to sell, with Wharton tied to a long-term contract and forming the backbone of Glasner’s side. That means only an extraordinary offer would tempt them to part ways with their prized asset.
Still, the allure of joining Liverpool — a club competing at the highest level domestically and in Europe — or Real Madrid, where he could follow in Bellingham’s footsteps, ensures that this saga will dominate transfer headlines in 2025.
Wharton’s decision, when it comes, will likely define the next phase of his career. For Liverpool and Real Madrid, securing his signature could shape their respective midfields for the next decade.
