Chelsea join race to sign Real Madrid midfield target from the Premier League | OneFootball

It is no secret that Real Madrid are gearing up for a summer of change in 2026.

The club have already targeted multiple defenders amid uncertainty over the futures of David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.

Similarly, the club are also looking at new midfielders, with coach Xabi Alonso particularly keen on finding a defensive midfielder, who can replace Toni Kroos.

Adam Wharton, to that end, has emerged as one of Real Madrid’s top target, especially after the club missed out on Martin Zubimendi last summer.

However, signing the Englishman will not be a walk in the park. If his soaring price tag wasn’t enough, Real Madrid are set to face renewed competition in the race to sign Wharton next summer.

Chelsea to battle Real Madrid for Wharton

According to reports in England, as relayed by AS, Chelsea have entered the race to sign Adam Wharton ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window.

Wharton could be the hottest prospect in England next summer. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

The Blues are keen on a new midfielder and the Crystal Palace star fits the bill perfectly due to his ball circulation abilities, coupled with his technical prowess.

These are qualities that him a top target for Real Madrid as well. However, a potential bidding war with Chelsea won’t bode well for Los Blancos, who are unlikely to spend a fortune on Wharton.

After all, the Crystal Palace player won’t come for much less than £100 million in the summer.

Real Madrid, therefore, must find a good list of alternatives, should they miss out on the Crystal Palace star next summer.

At the same time, Real Madrid are sure to try and leverage their prestige to convince Wharton to snub Chelsea. It has happened many times in the past and there’s no reason why it may not happen again next summer.