Crystal Palace icon Clinton Morrison has forecast that rising star Adam Wharton will depart Selhurst Park at the season's conclusion, suggesting Manchester United could emerge as the ideal next step for the talented England international.
Palace in Turmoil as Key Figures Depart
The South London club faces mounting uncertainty following several significant developments. Club captain Marc Guehi has recently completed a transfer to Manchester City, while manager Oliver Glasner delivered a blistering critique of the ownership, accusing them of effectively deserting the club. This follows last summer's sale of playmaker Eberechi Eze.
Glasner is confirmed to leave when his contract expires this summer, and striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has this week informed Palace of his desire to secure a move before the January window closes. Amid this backdrop of instability, 21-year-old Wharton stands as the club's most prized asset, attracting admiration from numerous Premier League sides.
United's Midfield Revamp Plans
Manchester United have identified midfield reinforcement as a priority for the upcoming summer transfer window. Wharton features prominently on their shortlist alongside Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson. Despite the exodus of key personnel from Palace, Morrison remains confident the young midfielder will not seek an immediate January exit.
'He is the right fit and they will come knocking,' Morrison stated regarding United's interest, speaking to Metro via Free Bets. 'That's a club where Wharton could go but even Real Madrid would suit him brilliantly. But I wouldn't worry too much about him right now, this kid is going to go wherever he wants to go.'
Wharton's Development and Future
Morrison praised Wharton's progress, noting, 'He still has a lot of learning to do but he is a fantastic, intelligent footballer and he keeps getting better.' He anticipates multiple offers will arrive for Wharton in the summer, with the club likely attempting to negotiate a new contract. However, he believes both player and fans are realistic about an eventual move.
'The chairman knows they will have a few offers in the summer,' Morrison added. 'I know what happens when you lose your best players but for Adam, the move will happen and I think every Palace fan will know that as well.'
Following in Declan Rice's Footsteps
Manchester United previously missed out when Arsenal secured Declan Rice from West Ham United for £100 million in 2023. Rice famously led the Hammers to Europa Conference League glory in his final act for the club. Should Wharton depart in the summer, he could have a similar opportunity, with Palace still competing in the same tournament this season.
'He can definitely do what Declan Rice did,' Morrison asserted. 'He can move in the summer, I personally think he should have another year at Palace so when he does move to the right club, he is ready to start every game.'
Morrison expressed hope that Wharton could emulate Rice's achievement: 'What Declan did with West Ham, winning the Europa Conference before leaving, hopefully Adam Wharton can win that competition too and follow in Dec's footsteps. If a club offers £70million it will be very hard to refuse so this could be the big finish for him.'
Broader Context at Crystal Palace
Morrison reflected on the recurring cycle at the club, stating, 'Unless a billionaire comes into the club this is just the way it goes... You do well and you move on and unfortunately that's the way it goes.' He also discussed the challenge of replacing Glasner, mentioning Gareth Southgate as a name in conversation but noting the club will likely wait until summer when more managerial options become available.
The former striker also commented on Mateta's transfer request, suggesting the timing was poor and that chairman Steve Parish is unlikely to sanction a sale unless an appropriate fee is met. He emphasised that Palace have historically navigated such periods of player and managerial turnover successfully.
