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Crystal Palace have rejected an approach from Premier League heavyweights Manchester City to sign Adam Wharton in the current summer transfer window.

According to The Athletic, the Eagles have made it clear to City that the midfielder is not for sale before the transfer deadline.

England international Wharton has become a target for City as they seek to rebuild their midfield following a summer of major changes.

City have lost Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders during this transfer window.

They have also been unable to lure Enzo Fernandez away from Chelsea or Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.

At the same time, they are in discussions with Newcastle United over the sale of fringe midfielder Nico Gonzalez, a deal that would leave them even shorter in central midfield.

Wharton has been on the radar of England’s leading clubs ever since he established himself as one of the country’s top young talents after his £18 million move to Palace from Blackburn Rovers.

The 22-year-old played a major role as Palace won the FA Cup and the Europa Conference League across the last two seasons.

Wharton would represent an excellent tactical match for City because of the way he plays. He is recognised for his resistance under pressure, outstanding passing choices and his ability to break opposition lines with his distribution.

He also provides defensive cover and has the physical strength to protect the backline during transitions, which would help City concede fewer goals from quick counter-attacks.

Wharton would also be an ideal partner for Elliot Anderson, whose work rate and pressing ability in central areas are among the strongest parts of his game.

The timing of City’s approach makes matters difficult for the Eagles if they were to look for a replacement. City are expected to move on to other targets before the transfer window shuts on September 1.