Liverpool eye move for Wharton to replace Jones | OneFootball

Liverpool have entered the race to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton this summer, according to Alex Crook.

The Reds are reportedly eyeing Wharton as a potential replacement for Curtis Jones, who could depart Anfield.

There is also uncertainty about the future of Alexis Mac Allister, who has two years left on his deal, prompting Liverpool to begin planning for a midfield succession.

However, Liverpool will need to cough up around £80 million to sign the England international.

Wharton has caught the eye this season, creating five big chances in 11 Europa Conference League outings.

He has also been outstanding in the Premier League, creating 11 big chances in 28 appearances.

While the 22-year-old is not the most defensively astute central midfielder, he is not one to neglect his duties off the ball.

He is poised to switch clubs this summer, and all the big boys are lining up for his signature.

Besides Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid are keeping tabs on him, and Chelsea have been linked.

Lauded as ‘a good technician’ by former England boss Gareth Southgate, his ability to dictate games and pry opposition backlines open makes him an unbelievable weapon.

While he is a very different profile from Mac Allister and Jones, he will make an equally excellent player for Liverpool boss Arne Slot.

But even with the growing excitement around Wharton, Liverpool cannot afford to lose sight of their most glaring midfield need in the engine room.

This is a side that has too often been left exposed in transition, with the backline lacking consistent protection when possession turns over.

Slot’s system truly demands a specialist defensive midfielder, someone who can read danger, break up play, and anchor the team structurally.

Without that presence, Liverpool risk repeating the same vulnerabilities that have plagued them in big moments.

Before splashing £80 million on creativity, Liverpool must prioritise steel, discipline, and control at the base of midfield.