Wharton Interest Intensifies as Liverpool and Real Madrid Monitor Palace Star
Crystal Palace are preparing to open contract talks with Adam Wharton amid growing interest from Liverpool and Real Madrid in the highly-rated midfielder. The 21-year-old has emerged as one of the Premier League’s standout young performers this season, attracting attention from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Wharton’s Rise and Current Valuation
Wharton joined Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in 2024 for a modest £18 million — a figure that now looks like an extraordinary bargain. In just over a year, his performances under Oliver Glasner have elevated his value to around £75 million, with scouts from Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich all tracking his progress closely.
While Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham have also expressed interest, it is Liverpool and Real Madrid who appear most serious in their pursuit. Both clubs view Wharton as an intelligent, progressive midfielder who could seamlessly fit into their tactical systems.
For Liverpool, Wharton represents a potential long-term solution in midfield, complementing Arne Slot’s emphasis on technical precision and positional versatility. Real Madrid, meanwhile, have continued to invest in emerging English talent, following successful moves for Jude Bellingham and the tracking of several Premier League prospects.
Palace’s Plan to Retain Their Midfield Gem
Sources indicate that Crystal Palace’s hierarchy, led by new sporting director Matt Hobbs, are ready to reward Wharton with an improved contract and potentially a structured release clause. Such an arrangement would mirror the approach taken with Eberechi Eze, whose contract includes a similar provision to protect the club’s negotiating position.
Despite Palace’s FA Cup triumph earlier in the year and their strong league performances, maintaining a competitive squad has become an increasing challenge. Glasner’s own contract expires at the end of the current campaign, and there is pressure internally to align player retention with the manager’s ambitions.
Wharton, for his part, is said to be content in south London, but his growing reputation and the allure of clubs such as Liverpool and Real Madrid could make negotiations delicate. Palace’s ability to offer both improved terms and a clear development plan will be crucial.
Performances That Command Attention
Wharton’s recent displays have only strengthened the interest around him. Despite Palace’s 2–1 defeat to Everton, ending their 19-match unbeaten run, the midfielder was widely regarded as the best player on the pitch — praise echoed by Jack Grealish, who described him as “outstanding.”
His composure, range of passing and ability to control tempo have marked him out as one of the most intelligent young midfielders in the Premier League. Although omitted from England’s latest squad, national team manager Thomas Tuchel has reportedly reassured Wharton that selection is not far away — underlining just how highly he is regarded at all levels of the game.
Future Decisions on and off the Pitch
As contract talks loom, Wharton’s situation could shape Crystal Palace’s immediate future. Should a release clause be agreed, it may only delay — rather than prevent — elite-level interest from materialising. Both Liverpool and Real Madrid are expected to monitor developments closely ahead of the January window, assessing whether Palace’s stance softens.
Palace are also exploring midfield reinforcements, including AZ Alkmaar’s 19-year-old Kees Smit, but insiders insist that Wharton remains central to their project. For now, the club’s priority is clear — securing the future of one of the most gifted English midfielders of his generation.
