Journalist reveals the chances of Liverpool landing England star in summer | OneFootball

Liverpool patience tested as Adam Wharton waits for right moment

Liverpool’s transfer strategy continues to be defined by restraint and precision, even after a record summer outlay. January rarely offers clarity or value, particularly for clubs shopping at the top end of the market, and that reality frames the growing interest in Adam Wharton. At Crystal Palace, the midfielder has developed into one of the Premier League’s most coveted young talents, and Liverpool are watching closely, aware that timing may matter as much as money.

Crystal Palace agreement shapes Liverpool thinking

Recruitment chief Richard Hughes has been linked with multiple positions, a centre back, a central midfielder and a winger, but Wharton stands out because of circumstance as much as quality. Reports of a gentleman’s agreement with Crystal Palace, placing his value around £60m to £65m, make him a far more realistic option than rivals such as Elliot Anderson, whose valuation has soared towards £100m.

Ben Jacobs, speaking on TalkSPORT, offered insight into why this deal feels more like a summer pursuit than a January gamble. “Adam Wharton is probably a summer saga as far as I’m aware,” he said. “It’s quite a fluid situation, as of now it’s not [Oliver] Glasner related. Some of the players are aware that Glasner could leave at the end of the season but Palace have got European football and they’re on track to get it again.

“Wharton’s number one priority imminently in his career is ideally to go and play Champions League football. If Palace they somehow qualify for the Champions League and Glasner leaves, Wharton might be a bit more patient.”

For Liverpool, Champions League qualification is almost assumed, which keeps Anfield firmly in the conversation regardless of Palace’s progress.

Wharton profile fits Liverpool midfield evolution

Wharton’s rise has been swift and assured, shaped by composure on the ball and a willingness to play forward under pressure. Those qualities resonate with Liverpool’s evolving midfield, where control and intelligence are increasingly prized alongside intensity. His age profile also aligns neatly with a squad being refreshed without losing competitiveness.