Journalist: Liverpool ‘keen’ on deal to sign £80m midfielder | OneFootball

Liverpool transfer news: Adam Wharton emerges as £80m midfield target

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy under Arne Slot continues to point towards elite-level midfield talent, and Adam Wharton has now firmly entered the conversation. According to reporting from Lewis Steele of The Daily Mail, the Crystal Palace star could be one of the most in-demand players of the summer, with Liverpool closely monitoring developments.

Steele writes, “After selling Guehi this month and with Jean-Philippe Mateta signalling his intention to leave, there is a widespread belief in the industry that Adam Wharton could be the next man to head for the exit door at Crystal Palace. Liverpool would be keen on the England international, according to sources, if a deal could be done with an £80m fee floated by some, though they would face competition from many teams.”

That line alone underlines the scale of the opportunity and the challenge facing Liverpool.

Adam Wharton profile and Liverpool interest

Wharton’s rise has been rapid. Since joining Palace, he has looked composed, tactically intelligent and technically secure, traits that fit seamlessly with what Slot demands from his midfielders. At 20, he already plays with the authority of someone far more experienced, and his England recognition only adds to his growing reputation.

Sources suggest Liverpool view him as a long-term cornerstone, rather than a squad option. That explains why the club are prepared to consider a fee approaching £80m.

Photo: IMAGO

Competition from Manchester City and Chelsea

Liverpool are far from alone. Manchester City and Chelsea are both tracking Wharton closely, with Pep Guardiola reportedly seeing him as a potential successor in deeper midfield roles. Chelsea, meanwhile, continue their policy of investing heavily in young English talent.

£80m valuation and Crystal Palace stance

Crystal Palace are under no pressure to sell, but the departures of key players could reshape their summer. An £80m valuation may sound ambitious, yet in today’s market it reflects both potential and scarcity.

From Liverpool’s perspective, the fee aligns with recent investments in long-term assets. If Slot wants a midfielder who can anchor his system for years, Wharton fits that blueprint perfectly.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a supporter’s point of view, this feels like exactly the sort of signing Liverpool should be pushing for. Adam Wharton ticks so many boxes, young, English, tactically disciplined and already proven in the Premier League. At £80m it is a massive commitment, but this is also the type of player who could define a midfield for the next decade.

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool will need midfielders who can think quickly, recycle possession and protect the defence. Wharton looks tailor-made for that role. He reminds many fans of a modern blend between a holding midfielder and a deep-lying playmaker, someone who can break up attacks and start them in the same movement.

The competition from Manchester City and Chelsea is worrying, but Liverpool still offer something unique. A clear tactical identity, Champions League football and a manager known for developing intelligent footballers. If the club are serious about returning to domestic and European dominance, this is the kind of signing that sends a message.