Liverpool eye Wharton as transfer race intensifies with Chelsea and Man Utd
Liverpool have reportedly opened early discussions over a move for Crystal Palace’s midfield sensation Adam Wharton, setting up a potential transfer battle with Chelsea and Manchester United in 2026.
Wharton’s rapid rise and growing interest
Since breaking into the Premier League, Wharton has established himself as one of English football’s brightest midfield prospects. His combination of composure, range of passing and tactical maturity has drawn widespread admiration, not least from Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United — all of whom are expected to reinforce their midfields over the next 18 months.
Liverpool’s interest is said to stem directly from Arne Slot’s long-term planning at Anfield. The Dutch coach, who is keen to evolve the midfield dynamic he inherited, reportedly views Wharton as an ideal addition to challenge and complement Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch. Sources close to the situation have indicated that preliminary talks have taken place to explore the possibility of a 2026 transfer.
Palace stance and valuation
Crystal Palace are in no rush to sell their prized asset. Wharton’s current contract runs until 2029, giving the club full control over his future. Club insiders have repeatedly stated that any offer below £70 million would be dismissed without hesitation. The Selhurst Park hierarchy are well aware of the growing interest but remain confident of retaining him for at least one more season.
For Liverpool, a January move appears highly unlikely. Instead, a summer approach seems more realistic, with early talks potentially a strategic move to position themselves ahead of rivals. Reports suggest Wharton’s preference could lean towards Anfield, though no official comment has been made by the player or his representatives.
Chelsea and Man Utd prepare their own plans
Chelsea have reportedly placed Wharton among their top three midfield targets as part of a broader squad rebuild under Enzo Maresca. The London club continue to pursue emerging English talent, and Wharton’s profile fits their model perfectly. However, competition from Manchester United could complicate any deal.
Ruben Amorim, now in charge at Old Trafford, is known to be pushing for reinforcements in central areas. United’s recruitment team are said to admire Wharton’s intelligence and discipline, viewing him as a player capable of thriving in a possession-based system. Both clubs are expected to monitor his situation closely through the winter and into the summer window.
Liverpool’s broader transfer focus
While Wharton is a major target, Liverpool’s interest in Crystal Palace does not stop there. Marc Guehi remains on their radar after a proposed move last summer fell through. With Guehi’s contract expiring in 2026, Palace could face renewed interest in the coming months, particularly if Liverpool accelerate efforts to strengthen their defensive options.
Meanwhile, the Reds continue to track AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit — a player familiar to Slot from his time in the Eredivisie — with Real Madrid and Newcastle also reportedly interested. This aligns with Liverpool’s wider strategy of securing young, technically gifted players who can develop within Slot’s high-tempo system.
Wharton’s next step
For now, Wharton remains fully focused on his responsibilities at Palace and his growing role with England. Having started in recent international fixtures, he has further underlined his status as one of Gareth Southgate’s most promising options heading towards the next World Cup.
A move in January looks improbable, but few doubt that by next summer, the tug-of-war for Wharton’s signature will dominate the headlines. Liverpool’s early move may prove decisive, yet with Chelsea and Manchester United both circling, this could become one of the defining transfer battles of 2026.
