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Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton could be on his way to Anfield this summer, as Liverpool look to strengthen their squad. The question remains—will his arrival address the Reds’ existing midfield concerns?

Arne Slot’s team are reportedly considering a move for the Crystal Palace talent ahead of the new season, though they face competition from Manchester United, who are also keen to secure his services.

Liverpool have entered the race for England international Adam Wharton, with Crystal Palace valuing the 22-year-old at around £80 million.

Wharton, who was linked with Serie A leaders Inter Milan during the January transfer window, could help resolve Liverpool’s midfield issues, particularly with potential departures of Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister looming.

Both Liverpool and Manchester United are expected to overhaul their midfields this summer. Liverpool are preparing for possible exits of Alexis Mac Allister, who has struggled for form, and Curtis Jones, who has spent much of the season on the bench. Meanwhile, United are anticipating the end of Casemiro’s spell at Old Trafford, with renewed uncertainty surrounding Bruno Fernandes’ future.

Securing Wharton’s signature could be crucial for either side, but especially for Liverpool, whose midfield frailties have been evident throughout the 2025–26 season.

According to talkSPORT, Crystal Palace are determined to keep hold of Wharton. However, the England international is believed to be open to a move away from Selhurst Park.

Palace’s reluctance stems from seeing several of their recent stars thrive elsewhere over the past 18 months. Marc Guehi and Eberechi Eze have been standout performers for their respective Premier League contenders, while Michael Olise has impressed in Germany.

At Liverpool, there is a growing belief that World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister’s best years may be behind him. Likewise, Curtis Jones’ limited game time has cast doubt on his long-term future at the club.

Wharton’s defensive awareness and composure on the ball could reinvigorate Liverpool’s creative outlets, potentially unlocking players like Florian Wirtz and improving the team’s attacking rhythm by stabilising the build-up play.

However, from Wharton’s perspective, the prospect of regularly playing in a deeper midfield role might be unappealing, given his exceptional passing range—one of the best in the Premier League.

Despite his versatility, Liverpool must be careful not to rely solely on his attacking instincts, as the team’s defensive vulnerabilities remain a critical area to address. His potential role at the club could therefore depend on how Slot plans to balance creativity with defensive solidity.

Wharton, who could earn a call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, is currently two years into his five-and-a-half-year deal with Crystal Palace, having joined the South London side for a reported £18 million in early 2024.

Liverpool will return to Premier League action this Sunday, when they face Merseyside rivals Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.