21-year-old Premier League star is ‘keen’ to join Liverpool despite Real Madrid interest

According to a report from Fichajes, Adam Wharton has made his intentions clear for the next stage of his career. The Crystal Palace midfielder, admired by several European giants, has expressed a strong preference for Liverpool despite interest from Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester United.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed rapid progress since joining Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in January 2024. As Fichajes notes, “In less than two years, he has played nearly 50 competitive matches, establishing himself as a key player in midfield thanks to his ability to win balls back and organize play.”

His impact has been significant, with six assists to his name and growing involvement with England at international level. It is no surprise that his consistency has “attracted the interest of some of Europe’s most powerful clubs.”

Liverpool’s Midfield Ambition

Liverpool’s need for reinforcement in the defensive midfield area has been well-documented. The report explains that Arne Slot’s side requires balance to compete alongside Ryan Gravenberch, with a lack of solidity out of possession still a concern.

Photo @LFC on X

As Fichajes highlights, “For Wharton, the Liverpool option represents an opportunity to grow in a competitive sporting project and continue developing in the league he knows best.” Journalist Ekrem Konur is cited, stating the player has “already expressed his willingness to choose the Reds as his next club.”

Competition from Europe’s Elite

Real Madrid view Wharton as potential cover for Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni, while Chelsea continue to stockpile promising midfielders. Manchester United are also circling, with Casemiro approaching the twilight of his career and Manuel Ugarte yet to convince.

Still, Crystal Palace are holding firm. “Any club interested in signing Wharton will have to pay between 60 and 70 million pounds,” notes the article. That valuation could make him one of the standout transfers of the 2026 window.

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report is both exciting and revealing. Wharton’s decision to reject Real Madrid shows a rare clarity for a young player—choosing footballing development and familiarity over glamour and prestige. Fans will see this as a positive sign of intent, particularly given the Reds’ need for a long-term solution in defensive midfield.

At £60–70 million, some fans may hesitate over the price tag, especially for a player with just under 50 Premier League appearances. Yet the argument is that this is an investment for the next decade, similar to when Liverpool backed their judgement on Virgil van Dijk or Alisson Becker.

The fact that Wharton “only wants to sign for Liverpool” is particularly striking. For the fan base, it signals loyalty and belief in the project under Arne Slot. This is the type of transfer saga that could spark optimism about beating Manchester City and Arsenal at the top of the Premier League.

If Liverpool can strike early and avoid a bidding war, Wharton could become a defining signing of the next era. For many fans, the dream of seeing a young English talent anchoring the midfield at Anfield feels closer than ever.

View publisher imprint