Liverpool players gather together on the pitch. (Photos Recine/Getty Images)
Liverpool and Real Madrid were interested in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton and could hope to move for him at the end of the season.
The 21-year-old is one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League, and both clubs are keen to secure his signature. He is likely not a cheap acquisition, and a report by Fichajes claims Real Madrid is preparing to offer him around 60 million euros.
It is rare for Crystal Palace to sanction his departure for such money. They could ask him for a premium. Meanwhile, the report also claims that Liverpool can enter a bid war with the Spanish giants.
Manchester United also watches the tabs Wharton.
Real Madrid can use Adam Wharton
Real Madrid needs more control and depth in the middle of the park, especially after the departure of Luka Modric and Toni Crew. The UK midfielders could prove to be the ideal long-term investment for them. He helps them control the game and also protects the back 4.
Similarly, Liverpool is overly dependent on Ryan Gravenberch, located in the middle of the park. They need deeper depth in that area of the pitch, and the Crystal Palace stars help them improve defensively and get better control of the game in the middle.
Where will Wharton go?
Both clubs are attractive destinations for players. It’s not yet known where he will end. They have the resources to pay him the premiums. He was able to develop into a future star with proper guidance. He will want to complete at the highest level, and both clubs will be able to provide him with the platform he needs.
He’s been described by his teammates as “an incredible player,” and it will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can make the deal.