Steven Gerrard Suggests Liverpool Already Sold a Midfielder He’d Take Over Adam Wharton

In a recent interview, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has hinted at a surprising preference regarding potential midfield reinforcements for his former club, suggesting they already sold a player he'd choose over the highly touted Adam Wharton. The comments come amid growing transfer speculation linking Wharton, the 21-year-old Crystal Palace star, to Anfield.[1][2]

Wharton has emerged as one of the Premier League's brightest midfield talents, leading chance creation with five assists so far this season and ranking in the top seven percent of European midfielders for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes (3.94).[1] Liverpool are reportedly holding initial talks to sign the £70m-£100m-rated England gem in 2026, as Arne Slot seeks to bolster his midfield options.[2][5] Palace, valuing him at up to £75m, plan new contract talks including a potential release clause, similar to Eberechi Eze's £68m clause that forced rivals to negotiate.[1]

Gerrard, who has opened the door to a Liverpool return without wanting Slot sacked, praised Wharton's line-breaking passes and hardworking deep-lying playstyle—qualities that echo his own iconic role.[4] However, he shockingly claimed Liverpool already sold a superior option during recent transfer windows. Sources suggest Gerrard is referring to Fabinho or another departed midfielder like Wataru Endo, whose tenacity and control Gerrard believes outmatch Wharton's raw potential, despite the youngster's high ceiling from 104 senior appearances.[1]

The remarks ignite debate among fans, with Palace bracing for a bidding war involving Manchester United (£60m bid eyed amid Casemiro's exit) and Real Madrid links.[3] Gerrard's endorsement underscores Wharton's fit for Liverpool's high-pressing system, but his nod to a past sale highlights Slot's squad evolution challenges. As 2026 approaches, Wharton's future could reshape the Premier League midfield landscape.[2][5]

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