The race for Adam Wharton has shifted gears from a domestic skirmish to a continental war. While Liverpool and Manchester United have spent months circling the Crystal Palace midfielder, the sudden emergence of Real Madrid as a serious suitor has sent panic through the recruitment offices at Anfield and Old Trafford.
Context: The "Exceptional" Fee
Since his arrival at Selhurst Park, Adam Wharton has evolved into what scouts are calling "the complete midfielder." His meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed, but Crystal Palace hold all the cards. Sources indicate that the Eagles are under no financial pressure to sell and have set a benchmark: any deal must surpass the fee received for Ebere Eze.
Reports from CaughtOffside confirm that while Premier League clubs are keen on a structured deal, Palace will demand "exceptional value" for their 21-year-old England international.
United in Chaos, Liverpool Stalling
For Manchester United, the timing could not be worse. The club is currently rudderless following the sacking of Ruben Amorim after a 1-1 draw with Leeds left them sixth in the table. With Darren Fletcher acting as interim, selling a long-term vision to Wharton against the stability of his other suitors becomes a near-impossible pitch.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are stable but underwhelmed. Arne Slot’s side sit fourth, a staggering 14 points behind leaders Arsenal, following a frustrating 2-2 draw with Fulham. While Slot’s position remains secure, the midfield balance has been questioned, and Wharton is viewed as the missing link to bridge the gap to the Gunners.
The Real Madrid Threat
The game-changer is the Bernabéu. Real Madrid view Wharton not just as squad depth, but as a tactical necessity. Reports suggest the Spanish giants see him as the ideal alternative to Aurélien Tchouaméni, offering the passing range to unlock deep blocks—a trait they have missed this season. Crucially, Madrid prefer a summer move, allowing them to clear the decks and allocate resources, a timeline that aligns perfectly with Palace’s desire to keep their star until the end of the campaign.
The betting markets have reacted cautiously. While English clubs were the favourites, the "Real Madrid factor" usually freezes domestic markets. If Los Blancos formalise their interest, Liverpool and United may find themselves fighting for second place.
What Happens Next?
Crystal Palace are bracing for a siege. Liverpool may try to preempt the summer war by testing Palace’s resolve in January, forcing Madrid to show their hand early. However, with United in managerial limbo and Madrid content to wait, the power rests entirely in South London. Expect Arne Slot to push for funds now, fearing that by June, Wharton will already have his heart set on Spain.