Liverpool make £100 million-rated midfielder "their top target"

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Liverpool's search for a new defensive midfielder has been long and well documented. Liverpool, as well as Manchester United, were seemingly in the race for Wolves' João Gomes, but he has decided to join Aston Villa for £38 million.

Liverpool identify top midfield target As reported by Robin Bairner of Football Transfers, Liverpool have made Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton "their top target", prioritising a move for the Englishman, having passed up the opportunity to sign Gomes. What Adam Wharton would bring to Liverpool Adam Wharton scores his first Crystal Palace goal in his 94th appearance! 🦅 pic.twitter.com/45KVoHAaEF— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 17, 2026The 22-year-old has been one of the most highly-rated midfielders in the Premier League pretty much from the day he arrived at Crystal Palace, joining from Blackburn Rovers in the winter window of 2024, key to their triumphs in the FA Cup and UEFA Conference League.

Still only 22 years old, he has earned four England caps, starting last November's qualifying victory over Albania at Arena Kombëtare, with many onlookers bewildered as to why Thomas Tuchel did not take him to the World Cup.So, would he be worth the astronomically high price tag that Liverpool would have to pay? Well, let's first and foremost analyse whether or not he is a better option than João Gomes.