Crystal Palace Chief Issues Stern Transfer Warning to Man Utd Over Adam Wharton Pursuit
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has acknowledged he finds it "unsurprising" that Manchester United are reportedly interested in midfielder Adam Wharton.
Wharton has become a primary target for several of Europe's elite clubs. Liverpool and Real Madrid are confirmed admirers of the 21-year-old, with Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich also reportedly monitoring his situation.
The most recent club to join this pursuit is United, with English media reports suggesting manager Ruben Amorim has specifically identified him as a potential replacement for Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Parish addressed the United rumors directly, cautioning interested parties that substantial bids will be required to persuade Palace to part with their star.
"If Manchester United are interested in Adam Wharton, there's really nothing shocking about that," Parish stated.
"The reality is he has a lengthy contract remaining. We're under no obligation to sell, and I believe there's no genuine pressure from the player's side either."
Wharton's Future Aspirations May Eventually Lead to Palace Departure
Palace are reportedly eager to offer Wharton an improved contract to recognize his development into one of the Premier League's most promising young midfielders, though the intense competition for his services means the Eagles face challenging negotiations ahead.
Palace's success on the pitch could prove crucial, with Parish acknowledging that Wharton might eventually need to move elsewhere to fulfill his Champions League aspirations.
"I believe Adam will eventually want to compete in the Champions League, either with us if we can achieve that, or likely with another team," he explained.
"He possesses exceptional ability. Currently, and I cannot speak on Adam's behalf, but I believe he's concentrated on his Crystal Palace career.
"He endured an interrupted campaign last season due to groin problems that frequently affect young players. This season I think he's entirely focused on accumulating appearances, earning England selection, becoming a consistent starter for us, and demonstrating his capabilities whether it's Saturday or Sunday, Thursday, Sunday. We're facing a demanding schedule at present.
"I believe he remains very loyal to the club. I'm uncertain where all these rumors originate."