Manchester City Are Facing Stiff Competition For This Crystal Palace Star: Should Pep Recruit Him? | OneFootball

Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, journalist Pete O’Rourke revealed that Manchester City are facing stiff competition for Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton. O’Rourke said,

“Obviously he’s got just under four years left on his deal at Selhurst Park right now until 2029.

“It doesn’t seem he’s in any real massive rush to leave Palace right now, he’s enjoying his football and playing week in, week out in the Premier League.

“He has become a key man in Glasner’s side with Palace doing so well at the moment, having won the FA Cup last year and playing in Europe.

“It seems Wharton is happy with life at Selhurst Park, but his form and performances will attract interest from other clubs.

“Liverpool, Manchester United are admirers, Manchester City, Chelsea, Spurs, and even Real Madrid have all been linked with Wharton.

“He’s been a revelation since his move to Selhurst Park and it’s not surprise these elite European clubs are all having a look at him.”

Wharton’s Impressive Form At Selhurst Park This Season

The English talent has managed to put in a string of solid performances at the heart of Crystal Palace’s midfield during this campaign. Wharton has registered one assist in ten matches for the Eagles this season across various competitions.

The 21-year-old has anchored the midfield well for the London side as he has made six tackles, five blocks, six interceptions and five clearances in the Premier League. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution based on his pass completion rate of 78.4% in the English first division (stats via fbref.com).

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 24: Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest at Selhurst Park on August 24, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

His current contract at the English club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it difficult for Man City to land him on the cheap next year.

Should Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola Recruit Wharton?

Wharton loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to make some important interceptions for his side at the centre of the park. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when required and is a tidy passer of the ball as well.

The English midfield ace has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Man City.

Wharton would bring more bite and steel to Pep Guardiola’s midfield department. He would also serve as an ideal, long-term replacement for Rodri, who has been quite injury-prone in recent years.

At 21, Wharton has the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. Therefore, Guardiola would be wise to try everything in his power to recruit him next year.