Transfer insider warns Liverpool they’d need to pay ‘a huge fee’ to sign ‘top player’ in 2026
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, who is valued at a substantial fee by his current club, with a price tag estimated between £60 million and £100 million. Crystal Palace, having paid about £22 million to Blackburn Rovers just over a year ago, now demand a significant premium for Wharton, reflecting his rapid rise in the Premier League and his importance to the team. Additionally, Blackburn is entitled to 15% of any profit exceeding the original transfer fee, adding to the overall cost Liverpool would face.
Adam Wharton, aged 21, has quickly become one of the most promising midfield talents in English football. Since joining Crystal Palace in January 2024, he has made nearly 50 appearances and contributed six assists. His performances have drawn attention not only from Liverpool but also from other major clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Manchester City, with a strong competition for his signature. Despite interest from multiple clubs, Wharton reportedly prefers a move to Liverpool, where he is believed to be assured playing time and participation in the Champions League.
Crystal Palace's manager, Oliver Glasner, is reluctant to lose Wharton mid-season, and the club is in a strong negotiating position owing to Wharton's contract running until 2029. While publicly Crystal Palace denies that Wharton is for sale, behind the scenes there is a different sentiment, suggesting a substantial transfer fee will be required to secure the midfielder's departure. The expectation is that Liverpool may launch a summer offensive to sign Wharton, ready to spend heavily to secure the player wanted by several elite clubs.
PP
