Liverpool and Manchester United eye Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton

Liverpool and Manchester United are set to compete for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, the 21‑year‑old England under‑21 international.

Both clubs see the 21‑year‑old as a long‑term solution to recent midfield gaps – Liverpool have struggled to replace Jordan Henderson’s leadership, while United aim to add two new central midfielders this summer^[1].

Wharton, who debuted for Crystal Palace last season, has outlined a single condition for his next move – guaranteed regular playing time^[2].

Clinton Morrison said, "Crystal Palace would ‘bite your hand off’ for him." The former striker emphasized the club’s willingness to fight for the youngster.

Liverpool’s scouting network reportedly values Wharton’s ball‑progression and defensive discipline, while United’s manager said the club needs youthful depth ahead of a congested fixture list.

If either club secures the midfielder, the transfer could shape the Premier League power balance, giving the winner a stronger core for the season’s title chase.

Liverpool entered the summer window with a midfield that has relied heavily on veteran players. The departure of James Milner last season left a vacancy in the holding role, and injuries to Jordan Henderson and Fabinho have exposed a lack of depth. Manager Jürgen Klopp said the club needs a dynamic box‑to‑box option who can contribute both defensively and in transition. Wharton’s reputation for covering ground and his passing accuracy align with those requirements.

Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, finished the 2023‑24 campaign with a midfield that struggled to control games against top opposition. The club added a high‑profile signing in the previous window but still lacks a true defensive midfielder to shield the back line. United’s manager said the club needs youthful depth to add two central midfielders, reflecting a strategic shift toward a more balanced spine. Wharton’s experience with England’s under‑21 side, where he logged over 2,000 minutes, makes him an attractive prospect.

The 21‑year‑old has already accumulated 25 Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace, registering three goals and five assists. His defensive contributions include an average of 1.8 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game, statistics that place him among the top young midfielders in the league. Wharton also earned his first senior England call‑up in March, confirming his rising profile on the international stage.

Both Liverpool and United are said to be prepared to meet Palace’s valuation, with sources indicating the club expects a fee that reflects Wharton’s potential resale value. Palace’s board said it was willing to negotiate if the terms include performance‑related add‑ons. A summer move would allow Wharton to join a club competing in the Champions League, while his demand for regular minutes suggests he will weigh playing time heavily in his decision.