Liverpool Move Ahead in Race for Adam Wharton
Liverpool have emerged as frontrunners to sign Adam Wharton, the highly rated 21-year-old midfielder currently at Crystal Palace, joining a growing list of elite clubs chasing his signature.
Manchester United had long viewed Wharton as a “dream target,” especially after their preferred option, Carlos Baleba, was ruled out when Brighton refused to sell. United scouts identified Wharton as a natural fit to bolster their midfield. However, according to reports, the Palace star is leaning toward Anfield, a development that has surprised United boss Rúben Amorim.
For now, Palace are standing firm and insist that no agreement has been reached. Wharton remains at Selhurst Park, with the club determined not to lose one of their brightest prospects too soon.
Liverpool’s interest, however, appears strong. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds see Wharton as a player capable of competing across midfield positions and providing composure in high-pressure matches. Crucially, sources suggest Wharton himself is more inclined toward a move to Liverpool than to other suitors.
Adding intrigue, Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation, though Wharton’s preference reportedly remains the Premier League—and specifically Anfield.
For United, this represents a potential setback in their midfield rebuild. Missing out on Wharton would be a blow, especially if he chooses Liverpool, a club with a stronger recent track record in player development and European competition.
Liverpool, on the other hand, are leveraging their momentum under Slot and their appeal as Premier League champions to attract ambitious young players. Wharton’s inclination toward the Reds underlines the club’s enduring pull for emerging talent weighing their next career step.
