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Credit to The Mail for reporting that Crystal Palace are preparing improved terms for Adam Wharton, including a potential release clause, as several European giants circle. Liverpool and Real Madrid are leading the chase, while Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham remain attentive. It is a remarkable surge in value for a player signed for just £18million from Blackburn Rovers in 2024, now reportedly in the £75million bracket.
Rising Stock of a Midfield General
Wharton’s consistency has been impossible to ignore. Even in defeat against Everton, he dazzled, prompting Jack Grealish to call him “the best player on the pitch” after netting a 93rd-minute winner. England boss Thomas Tuchel may have left him out of his latest squad, but he reassured the youngster he was close to selection. The sense is that international recognition is a matter of timing, not ability.
Photo: IMAGOPalace at a Crossroads
With two years left on his deal come summer, Palace are eager to avoid another protracted contract saga. Eberechi Eze once had a release clause inserted and similar talks are expected with Wharton. Sporting director Matt Hobbs carries the responsibility of matching head coach Oliver Glasner’s ambitions, especially with Glasner’s own contract expiring in June.
European Eyes Watching Closely
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have monitored him extensively. Liverpool, in particular, see Wharton as part of their evolving midfield succession plan. One senior Anfield source was quoted internally as saying, “He plays like he has been in the Premier League for ten years, not one.”
FA Cup winners Palace are also weighing a move for 19-year-old Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar, but Wharton remains the fulcrum.
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Our View – EPL Index Analysis
Liverpool fans will be excited by this development. Wharton has the poise of a veteran and the energy of an academy graduate fresh from debut. He presses, he progresses and he rarely loses composure. That combination fits perfectly into Arne Slot’s pressing-centric structure.
However, there is concern. Palace are under no pressure to sell and will demand a premium. Inserted release clauses often favour the buyer, but only if set smartly. At £75million, many supporters would argue it is a gamble, particularly with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alexis Mac Allister already dictating play from deep.
Real Madrid lurking adds further tension. Competing with them in a bidding war is rarely successful. There is also the risk Palace convince Wharton to stay longer, selling him the dream of leading their European push.
Still, hearing Jack Grealish label him “the best player on the pitch” tells its own story. Elite players recognise elite talent. If Liverpool want to remain among Europe’s elite, this is the calibre of transfer they must secure.
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