Adam Wharton in action for Crystal Palace against Ipswich last season (Photo: Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Manchester United and Chelsea could reportedly be two teams to watch in the race for Adam Wharton’s signature.
The Crystal Palace and England midfielder is believed to be ‘loved’ by key figures at Old Trafford as a big move seems inevitable sooner or later.
According to TEAMtalk, United are determined to hijack Chelsea’s bid for Wharton, who is “loved” by Ruben Amorim and his staff.
The report goes on to suggest that Wharton’s offer could reach £70m, suggesting it will not be easy to lure him away from Selhurst Park in January.
As I reported in today’s Daily Briefing, my understanding is that United are looking for a midfielder, with Koby Mainu likely to leave the club, but Palace are *not* going to sell Wharton midway through the season.
Can Man United and Chelsea win the race for Adam Wharton?
It will certainly not be easy to sign Wharton, but Palace will do everything in their power to keep the talented youngster for as long as possible, although other big clubs could also be in the race for his signature.
As reported earlier today, Real Madrid want Wharton as they eye a number of top midfield players after missing out on Martin Zvimendi.
Still, Chelsea is certainly an attractive project for Wharton, as the Blues’ current owners are focused on developing talented young players like Wharton.
But at the same time, CFC already has Enzo Fernandes and Moises Caicedo in their midfield, so it remains to be seen whether Wharton will get much minutes as a starter.
United could perhaps be a more reliable option for Wharton. Because they are in dire need of a new midfielder and would probably be very happy to build the team around him.