Report: Premier League Midfielder Now Liverpool Priority After Rejecting Other Move | OneFootball

Liverpool prioritise Adam Wharton as midfield target after Joao Gomes decision

Liverpool have made Adam Wharton their leading midfield target this summer after deciding against a move for Joao Gomes, according to Football Transfers. The shift in direction points to a clear preference inside the club as planning continues under Andoni Iraola and sporting director Richard Hughes.

The report states that Liverpool “have made Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton their top target this summer, having rejected the opportunity to sign Joao Gomes from Wolves”. That is a significant development given Gomes “was considered the leading candidate to sign for the Anfield club” earlier in the process.

There is further detail around that decision. Liverpool “spoke to the agent of the 25-year-old, who was prepared to move to Anfield on his existing terms” and “the Brazilian was eager to sign for Liverpool”. Yet after assessing the opportunity, the club “had a change of heart and opted for a different type of profile, targeting Wharton instead”.

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Adam Wharton now central to Liverpool transfer plans

That phrase, “different type of profile”, feels important. Wharton has long been admired across the Premier League for his composure, passing range and ability to control rhythm from midfield. The report adds that Liverpool “have put the former Blackburn man front and centre of their plans”, underlining how strongly he now features in the club’s thinking.

There is, however, an obvious complication. Crystal Palace are determined sellers only on their own terms. Football Transfers report that “Palace are eager to retain the central midfielder for at least one more season” and are “targeting a price in excess of £100m” if Liverpool want to force the issue.

Joao Gomes call shows clear recruitment choice

Liverpool’s willingness to walk away from Gomes, especially with Aston Villa reportedly closing in on a £35 million move, suggests confidence in their shortlist and conviction in the profile they want. It also reflects a market where top-level midfielders are scarce and increasingly expensive.

Wharton is an ambitious target, and perhaps the standout English midfielder potentially available this summer. Whether Liverpool are ready to meet Palace’s valuation remains to be seen, but the message is clear, Wharton is the name to watch.

Our View

From a Liverpool fan perspective, this report makes plenty of sense. Wharton looks like a player with the calmness and authority to run matches, and that is exactly what the midfield has lacked at key moments. If the recruitment team truly want a “different type of profile”, then this feels like a deliberate move towards control, intelligence and long-term upside.

There will be debate over the price, and rightly so. Paying “in excess of £100m” for any midfielder brings pressure, expectation and scrutiny. Even so, elite talent in the Premier League market now costs huge money, and Liverpool have already shown they are prepared to move decisively for the right player.

Turning down Gomes may divide supporters because he is energetic, aggressive and proven in the division. But if the club believe Wharton is the better strategic fit for Iraola’s midfield, that is the key point. This should not be about signing the easiest option, it should be about securing the best one.

For Liverpool, the biggest positive in this story is clarity. Wharton being “front and centre of their plans” suggests a club acting with conviction. If Palace can be brought to the table, supporters will hope Liverpool push hard, because this is the sort of midfielder who could shape the next phase of the team.

Source: Football Transfers