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Liverpool have reportedly made a direct approach to Crystal Palace to discuss a move for Adam Wharton, with Manchester United also having asked about the midfielder, according to an insider account on X.

Wharton has attracted interest from several clubs during the summer window. The Crystal Palace midfielder has been linked with virtually the entire Premier League top six, although most of those clubs have already strengthened their midfield departments this season.

Liverpool have not done that yet, and with Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister both possible departures, reinforcements in that area would be needed.

According to the insider account, Liverpool have made direct calls to Palace to talk over a potential deal for Wharton.

The same account adds that United, who have already brought in Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer, have made an enquiry for Wharton as well.

For most interested clubs, the main stumbling block has been Wharton’s valuation, which is believed to be between £85 million and £100 million.

It remains unclear from the latest reporting whether Liverpool or United would be prepared to go that high, or whether a fee in that bracket has already been communicated to them by the Eagles.

Other reports have also indicated that Chelsea have made contact over Wharton, with Enzo Fernandez potentially set to leave the club this summer.

While Wharton has no shortage of suitors this summer, United have been strongly urged to move for the England midfielder.

Red Devils legend Paul Scholes said: “I can’t believe they’re not trying to buy Adam Wharton.

“Sandro Tonali would have been my first-choice but with him gone now, Adam Wharton looks perfect to me.”

The fact that United have made an enquiry for the Palace player will therefore be encouraging for Scholes, but with their interest not currently advanced and other clubs also circling, there is no certainty over a transfer.

On top of that, United have already spent £85 million on two midfielders this summer, and it may be unlikely that they would commit double that amount or more on one further addition.

If Chelsea do sell Fernandez, they would receive a major financial boost and could place themselves in a strong position to sign Wharton.

At Liverpool, much of the attention is currently on Bradley Barcola, who would likely cost well over £100 million if a deal is completed. However, there are difficulties on that front at present, so it appears unlikely that they would also be able to meet Wharton’s price.