Liverpool are reportedly showing interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as they look to strengthen their squad with a new No. 6 next summer.
Although Liverpool were unsuccessful in signing a defensive midfielder during the recent transfer window, their plans to address this position remain intact.
Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is still on the club’s radar, but his availability will depend on his willingness to leave the Spanish side.
In the meantime, Wharton has emerged as an attractive alternative.
According to The Mail’s Sami Mokbel, Newcastle United expressed tentative interest in Wharton during the summer.
However, both Liverpool and Manchester City are now closely tracking the 20-year-old’s progress, which could place him beyond Newcastle’s reach.
A move for Wharton would likely be next summer, rather than in the upcoming winter window.
Since joining Palace from Blackburn Rovers in a £22 million transfer in January, Wharton has made an impressive transition to Premier League football.
Primarily deployed as a defensive midfielder for Palace, Wharton has also shown his composure and skill in possession, qualities that make him a versatile asset for both club and country.
Given his youth, experience, and potential, he fits the profile of a typical Liverpool target.
However, the transfer fee could be substantial.
Wharton signed a contract with Palace that runs until 2029, and the club is known for driving a hard bargain.
This was evident when Palace rejected multiple bids from Newcastle for Marc Guehi during the summer, including offers as high as £70 million for the player who is now their captain.
Similarly, Michael Olise only left for Bayern Munich after the Bundesliga champions activated his £60 million release clause, while Palace’s refusal to lower Eberechi Eze’s £68 million clause ensured the winger stayed put.
Early projections suggest that Wharton could eventually command a fee in the region of £100 million – far more than Liverpool are likely to spend.
Interestingly, Mokbel’s report also notes that Marc Guehi could be available next summer, with Liverpool maintaining an interest in the centre-back.
As Guehi’s contract expires in 2026 and no assurances have been made regarding a new deal, the England international could be available for less than £50 million.
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