Crystal Palace Star Adam Wharton Nears Liverpool Switch Amid Club Turmoil
Crystal Palace are facing a period of significant uncertainty both on and off the pitch, with key midfielder Adam Wharton reportedly edging closer to a high-profile departure. According to prominent Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, the 21-year-old England youth international is "getting closer" to a move to Premier League rivals Liverpool, having already given his approval for a five-year contract at Anfield.
Palace's Precarious Position Intensifies Transfer Speculation
The potential loss of Wharton comes at a troubling time for the South London club. Under manager Oliver Glasner, the Eagles have endured a difficult run of form, failing to secure a victory in any competition across their last eleven matches since mid-December. This slump has left them hovering just eight points above the relegation zone, amplifying concerns among supporters.
Glasner, while praised for his work at Selhurst Park, now faces mounting pressure to reverse the team's fortunes. The recent January transfer window has brought mixed results: the arrival of attacker Brennan Johnson from Tottenham Hotspur was offset by the £20 million sale of club captain Marc Guehi to Manchester City. Further major exits before the window closes would represent a significant blow to squad stability.
Wharton's Anfield Move Gains Momentum
The speculation surrounding Adam Wharton's future has intensified following Schira's social media update. The journalist stated: "Adam Wharton is getting closer to Liverpool from Crystal Palace. The midfielder has already given his availability to join LFC with a 5-years contract." While a summer transfer had been previously anticipated, these latest reports suggest negotiations may be advancing rapidly.
Crystal Palace are believed to value their academy graduate at approximately £80 million. Wharton's recent on-field frustrations were evident during Sunday's 3-1 home defeat to Chelsea, where he received the first red card of his professional career for two bookable offences. His visible disappointment while leaving the pitch added to the narrative of a player potentially seeking a new challenge.
Liverpool Lead the Race for Highly-Coveted Talent
Liverpool appear to have moved ahead of other suitors in the pursuit of Wharton's signature. The midfielder has previously attracted reported interest from elite clubs including Manchester United, Arsenal, and even Spanish giants Real Madrid, underscoring his reputation as one of English football's most promising young talents.
For Crystal Palace, retaining such assets is crucial as they battle to maintain their Premier League status. Manager Oliver Glasner reflected on the Chelsea defeat, acknowledging refereeing decisions but emphasising self-reliance: "I could easily blame the referee for a few decisions... But, to be honest, it feels wrong to blame the referee because he can't help us in the future. We can only help ourselves."
As the transfer window drama unfolds, Palace supporters face an anxious wait to see if Wharton will remain at Selhurst Park or become the latest key figure to depart, with Liverpool poised to secure a major long-term investment in midfield.
