Sources: Liverpool, Man City and Real Madrid eyeing transfer that could cost as much as £100m
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Real Madrid has shown significant interest in signing Adam Wharton, the 21-year-old midfielder currently playing for Crystal Palace, viewed as a potential long-term successor to Toni Kroos and Luka Modri?. Wharton has impressed in the Premier League following his transfer from Blackburn Rovers in 2024 for around £21 million, becoming a regular for Crystal Palace and the England national team. His standout performances helped Palace secure the 2025 FA Cup and Community Shield, notably assisting a key equalizer in the latter[1][3].
Despite Real Madrid's strong interest and monitoring of Wharton, official approaches are not expected until the end of the current season, with plans for a possible move next summer. Both Wharton and his representatives, along with Crystal Palace, prefer he gains more experience in the Premier League before transferring abroad. This cautious stance aligns with Crystal Palace's intention not to entertain offers at present, particularly after losing another key player, Eberechi Eze[2].
The transfer fee expected for Wharton is substantial, around €98.4 million ($114.8 million/£85 million). Crystal Palace reportedly demands no less than €80 million, and the deal would likely require Real Madrid to fund the transfer by selling players such as Rodrygo[1]. Interest in Wharton is not limited to Real Madrid; top Premier League clubs including Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City are also monitoring him closely[1].
Real Madrid's pursuit of Wharton reflects their strategy to rejuvenate their midfield with young talent after the departure of long-serving veterans Kroos and Modri?. Wharton fits the profile of a deep-lying playmaker who can orchestrate play, making him a strategic target for the Spanish giants as they look to rebuild[3][4].
PP