Adam Wharton will be one of the most expensive sales in Crystal Palace history should he leave this summer. The English midfielder is one of the most coveted youngsters in Europe, and Liverpool and Manchester United are long-term admirers.
Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season, unfortunately, is leading to an exodus of star players. Wharton could follow Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi out of the Selhurst Park door.
A report from TEAMtalk claims that there is a “gentleman’s agreement” in place for the 22-year-old to join a Champions League club for £60-65m. He arrived at the club from Blackburn Rovers in early 2024 in a £22m deal.
Wharton has wowed fans ever since joining Palace, putting in playmaking performances that have earned comparisons to Spanish legend Sergio Busquets. He looks certain to be on the plane with England for this summer’s World Cup.
Wharton race heats up
Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid’s interest in Wharton is long-term. All three are focusing on bolstering their midfields this summer.
Wharton seems to have a fourth club chasing his signature, as Newcastle United are reportedly impressed. Eddie Howe’s Magpies are struggling domestically but are through to the last 16 of the Champions League.
Newcastle might have to become European champions to have a chance of winning the race for Wharton. They currently sit 13th in the Premier League, just a point and a place above Palace.
Reports also claim that Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes could be on the move this summer. Manchester United are being linked with the midfield duo ahead of Casemiro’s departure.
Palace must prepare
Wharton’s uncertain future has been a nuisance and possibly a distraction for the young Englishman. That is reportedly how the higher-ups feel, as they are ‘concerned’ his performances have dipped due to transfer speculation.
The Palace man has made 37 appearances across competitions this season, providing five assists. If he is to leave this summer, he’ll hope to do so after winning the Europa Conference League.
| Adam Wharton (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Appearances: | 25 |
| Goals: | 0 |
| Assists: | 3 |
| Big chances created: | 9 |
| Key passes: | 1.2 |
| Long balls (accurate): | 2.1 (47%) |
| Tackles per game: | 2.3 |
| Ground duels won: | 3.7 (51%) |
| Aerial duels won: | 0.8 (47%) |
Steve Parish’s transfer chiefs need to weigh up potential replacements so that they don’t leave it late. Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney could be an interesting option, and he has the makings of a long-term leader in the dressing room.
Wharton isn’t the only midfielder who might be headed for the exit door. Daichi Kamada is also reportedly set to leave the club when his contract expires.
