Adam Wharton Emerges as £70m Liverpool Midfield Target
Liverpool’s long-term midfield planning is beginning to crystallise, with Adam Wharton emerging as a serious option ahead of the summer transfer window. The Crystal Palace midfielder continues to attract attention across the Premier League, with internal and external valuations placing his price at around £70m.
At 21, Wharton fits the profile Liverpool have prioritised in recent recruitment cycles: technically accomplished, tactically adaptable and capable of developing into a long-term first-team pillar. While no formal bid has been made, Liverpool’s interest is well established, and senior figures at the club are understood to be tracking his situation closely as preparations for the next window intensify.
Midfield planning under Arne Slot
Despite Liverpool’s overall control in possession during recent months, midfield depth remains an area under review. The existing unit has been heavily relied upon across competitions, with injuries and workload management issues occasionally limiting tactical flexibility.
Arne Slot’s system places significant emphasis on midfield structure. Players must be comfortable receiving under pressure, capable of progressing the ball vertically and disciplined enough to protect defensive transitions. Wharton’s ability to operate as a holding midfielder or step forward to dictate tempo has been noted as a key attraction.
His composure on the ball and positional awareness have enabled Crystal Palace to build more effectively from deep this season. Those traits are viewed as essential in a Liverpool side that expects its midfielders to interchange roles without compromising balance.
Wharton’s development and international status
Wharton’s progression over the past 18 months has been steady rather than explosive, but no less impressive. Since establishing himself at Premier League level, he has delivered a level of consistency that belies his age, regularly performing against elite opposition.
His involvement with England at Euro 2024 further underlined his standing within the national setup. Looking ahead, he is expected to remain part of the long-term international picture as preparations build towards the 2026 World Cup.
That trajectory has only strengthened Crystal Palace’s negotiating position. Wharton is contracted until 2029, giving the club considerable leverage and helping to explain the £70m valuation now being attached to his name. Liverpool are acutely aware that any move would require a significant financial commitment.
Competition and market considerations
Liverpool are not the only club monitoring Wharton, according to the Daily Mail, Manchester United are also understood to have registered interest, while other Premier League sides are keeping a watching brief. However, Liverpool’s ability to offer Champions League football, a clearly defined sporting project and a structured development pathway may prove influential.
The £70m figure is substantial, but Liverpool have shown a willingness to operate at that level when a player is viewed as a long-term solution rather than a short-term fix. Any potential move is expected to be explored in the summer rather than January, allowing Crystal Palace to maintain stability through the current campaign.
Long-term fit within Liverpool’s rebuild
Internally, Wharton is viewed as a player who could shape Liverpool’s midfield for years rather than merely supplement it. His age profile, tactical intelligence and growth potential align closely with the club’s broader squad planning strategy.
While discussions remain at an exploratory stage, his emergence as a £70m-rated target reflects Liverpool’s forward planning. Recruitment conversations are ongoing, and Wharton’s name continues to feature prominently.
