Star Midfielder Deals Crushing Blow to Liverpool and Real Madrid's Transfer Dreams
Crystal Palace are preparing discussions regarding a fresh deal with promising midfielder Adam Wharton as they aim to ward off attention from Europe's elite clubs, according to recent reports.
Liverpool and Real Madrid are among the teams that have been associated with the 21-year-old Wharton, whose reputation has soared significantly following his 2024 move from Blackburn Rovers. He contributed substantially to Palace's Community Shield and FA Cup victories and remains close to England squad selection.
Recognizing the increasing attention surrounding Wharton's availability, Palace are looking to present him with enhanced terms at the earliest opportunity. The Daily Mail reports that discussions regarding a fresh contract are being arranged to counter a expanding roster of interested parties that also features Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich.
Any fresh agreement might feature a buyout clause, comparable to the arrangement that facilitated Eberechi Eze's summer transfer to Arsenal, though the amount remains undisclosed. While this report values Wharton at £75 million ($101 million), BBC Sport anticipates any release clause would exceed that amount.
Wharton remains contracted to Palace through summer 2029, which means the Eagles face no immediate urgency to negotiate an extension from a transfer standpoint. The FA Cup champions are merely attempting to maintain the youngster's satisfaction and reduce speculation surrounding his future.
Wharton: I Won't Cry Over England Snub
Despite his rising profile, Wharton's international journey has not matched the same upward path. He earned one cap under Gareth Southgate in June 2024 but has not featured for new manager Thomas Tuchel, whose present England roster features players like Brentford's Jordan Henderson and AC Milan's Ruben Loftus-Cheek as options.
"[Tuchel] simply sent me a note saying I'm performing well, I'm near and I merit being there but he's going to remain with the same squad," Wharton commented on his recent England exclusion.
"That's the game, I'm not overly concerned about that. I can use the break, visit my grandparents, and it's not catastrophic as there's another gathering next month. Nothing is guaranteed. England possess some excellent players and he has numerous players to select from. Regardless of his choices someone won't make it and there will be discussion about it.
"I cannot sit here and be upset about it, this is the sport and I'm content playing for Palace and getting playing time and attempting to perform as well as possible and develop and if I get selected, I get selected. If not I'll continue playing for Palace and enjoying myself. There's nothing more I can really do.
"Naturally everyone desires to represent their nation if they're chosen but, as I mentioned, this is football and he has plenty of quality players to choose from and that's his job, select the team and help England succeed.
"Hopefully they progress and achieve the results they require to qualify for the World Cup. I'll keep trying to earn my place and if I'm included, I'm included and if not I'll continue forward."