Liverpool have joined the race to sign 21-year-old Premier League star

Liverpool Join Race for Adam Wharton Amid Intense Transfer Battle

Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton has quickly become one of the Premier League’s most in-demand midfielders, with Liverpool now among the clubs eyeing his signature. As reported by Fraser Fletcher of TeamTalk, the 21-year-old is also attracting attention from Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Chelsea.

Rising value of Wharton

Since his £18 million switch from Blackburn Rovers in February 2024, Wharton’s impact at Selhurst Park has been immense. His “composure, vision, and ability to dictate play from deep” have made him stand out as a midfield organiser beyond his years. Palace are reportedly holding firm at a valuation of around £60 million, showing just how much his stock has risen.

United face growing competition

Manchester United have tracked Wharton for months, seeing him as “a cornerstone for their midfield rebuild.” Yet they are no longer the only side pushing for his services. TEAMtalk reveal that “Newcastle’s interest stems from their desire to bolster their midfield with young, homegrown talent,” while Chelsea continue to stockpile young midfielders.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s interest, however, feels the most intriguing. Under Arne Slot, the Reds are targeting versatile players capable of adapting to different tactical demands. Wharton fits this mould perfectly, with his defensive discipline and passing range.

Palace hold strong stance

Crystal Palace are not expected to sanction a sale in January, with reports suggesting they would prefer to cash in during the summer of 2026. That said, heavy competition from four top Premier League clubs could accelerate the process, particularly if an irresistible offer arrives.

For now, Wharton remains the heartbeat of Palace’s midfield, but the looming tug-of-war is shaping into one of the standout transfer sagas to watch.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, Adam Wharton represents the type of player who could futureproof the midfield. Many fans would see him as an heir to the controlling roles previously occupied by the likes of Jordan Henderson or even Fabinho, albeit with a slightly different skillset. His ability to dictate the tempo and play with calmness under pressure stands out in a league that often demands frantic energy.

Wharton’s style aligns well with Arne Slot’s philosophy. Slot is building a Liverpool side that prioritises technical quality and tactical flexibility. Wharton could operate as a deep-lying playmaker in rotation with Alexis Mac Allister, while also providing balance alongside more energetic midfielders such as Dominik Szoboszlai or Ryan Gravenberch.

Fans may also welcome the idea of Liverpool competing directly with Manchester United for a signing of this calibre. It’s not just about strengthening the squad, but also about denying a rival a long-term midfield solution. The prospect of Wharton moving to Old Trafford might be difficult for many supporters to accept, especially given his potential trajectory.

The financial aspect is also worth noting. At £60 million, Wharton would not be a bargain, but his ceiling suggests that Liverpool could secure a long-term midfield general. With Chelsea and Newcastle also circling, Liverpool may need to move decisively if they truly want him.

Ultimately, the buzz around Wharton shows how rapidly his reputation has grown. For Liverpool supporters, this feels like a transfer race that could shape not just the midfield balance, but the wider rivalry dynamics in the Premier League for years to come.

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