Liverpool ‘in advanced contacts’ over Adam Wharton as Real Madrid weigh options | OneFootball

Liverpool have stepped up their pursuit of Adam Wharton amid interest from Real Madrid. Marca reports that Liverpool are in "advanced contacts" with the Crystal Palace and England midfielder’s representatives and are currently seen as favourites.

Real Madrid are set to move for a midfielder this summer, two years on from Toni Kroos’ retirement in 2024, but they have yet to settle on a preferred target. Club bosses are ready to act, although the shortlist remains under discussion.

Options include Vitinha, Rodri Hernandez and Kees Smit, with Wharton also monitored for over 12 months. A push for the 22-year-old could come now, given it is increasingly likely that he leaves Crystal Palace in 2026.

Even if Madrid choose Wharton, there is no guarantee they land him. Liverpool want to keep him in English football and aim to agree personal terms before the window opens, a step that would leave them well placed to strike an agreement with Palace.

Real Madrid cannot afford to delay identifying a leading target, as there is a risk of being left behind if they wait too long. With little left to play for before the season ends, the hierarchy can look ahead to the summer, though whether Wharton remains on the list by then is uncertain.

Source: Football Espana