Report: Club sends clear message to Liverpool and Real Madrid as they eye January move for star
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Liverpool and Real Madrid have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Adam Wharton, the 21-year-old defensive midfielder currently playing for Crystal Palace. Both European football giants have expressed strong interest in signing Wharton, who is widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s best holding midfielders and a player with a promising future.
Real Madrid, under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, are searching for a new defensive midfielder and view Wharton as an ideal candidate to fill this role. However, it is expected that Los Blancos will wait until the summer of 2026 to make any move to acquire him. Meanwhile, Liverpool are keen to bolster their midfield options and have placed Adam Wharton as a top target for the upcoming January transfer window or the next season. They are also considering him alongside other midfield prospects like Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
Despite these interests, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is determined to retain Wharton. After Eberechi Eze’s departure, Palace find Wharton integral to their midfield structure and are prepared to block any winter exit. The club believes finding a suitable mid-season replacement will be difficult, so they aim to keep him until the end of the season, effectively preventing Liverpool or Real Madrid from signing him in January.
Transfer insiders suggest Liverpool’s plans for Wharton are more long-term, with a significant move likely in 2026 rather than immediately. The club is also considering alternative midfield targets but still rates Wharton highly in its recruitment strategy. The reported price tag and competition for Wharton add further challenges to the Reds’ pursuit.
In summary, both Liverpool and Real Madrid remain interested in Adam Wharton, but Crystal Palace's firm stance means neither club is likely to secure his signature before the end of the 2025-26 season. The midfielder is set to continue playing a key role for Palace while clubs plan future bids.
PP