Report: Liverpool set sights on £60m midfield talent in summer evolution | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Next Midfield Gem? Why Adam Wharton is on Slot’s Radar

Slot’s Summer Vision

Liverpool may be Premier League champions once again, but the machine never sleeps. Arne Slot, fresh from guiding the Reds to their 20th league title, is already focused on evolution. According to TEAMtalk, the Dutchman is keen to add Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton to his midfield engine room — a move that could be one of the summer’s most significant in shaping the next era at Anfield.

Wharton, only 21, has been a revelation since arriving at Selhurst Park from Blackburn Rovers in February for £18 million. His blend of composure, intelligence, and aggression has seen him fast-tracked into England’s Euro 2024 plans and now, into the gaze of Europe’s elite. Palace, unsurprisingly, are in no rush to sell. His contract runs until 2029 and chairman Steve Parish has a track record of playing hardball, evidenced by Michael Olise’s saga last summer.

Liverpool, however, are not deterred.

Midfield Evolution in Progress

The midfield transformation that began under Jürgen Klopp has continued under Slot, albeit with tactical shifts. Where Klopp’s midfield thrived on intensity and pressing triggers, Slot’s model adds more control, circulation, and positional discipline. It’s here that Wharton fits the mould.

Sources told TEAMtalk that Wharton is viewed as “a long-term investment,” potentially lining up alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch. His ability to break up play and advance the ball aligns with Slot’s philosophy. In 26 Premier League appearances this season, Wharton has registered two assists and countless unnoticed contributions — interceptions, tackles, and passes that keep the rhythm of the game alive.

“An incredible player,” Eberechi Eze called him in June. “A joy to play with.”

It’s not difficult to see why.

Transfer Race Begins

Chelsea are also lurking, with Enzo Maresca identifying Wharton as a future partner to Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. But Liverpool can dangle two carrots few others can: Champions League football and a clear path to progression in a team that continues to trust in youth.

Palace will reportedly demand over £60 million — a figure Liverpool may hesitate on, given past hesitations over Jude Bellingham and Moisés Caicedo. But Slot’s desire, Liverpool’s track record of development, and the prospect of Wharton becoming the heartbeat of a new-look midfield may yet force a formal bid.

The next few weeks will test Liverpool’s resolve, and Palace’s resistance.

Champions Rebuilding from Strength

The hallmark of great teams is not just how they win, but how they prepare to win again. Liverpool, guided by Slot’s clarity and ambition, appear ready to make a decisive move.

Wharton, dynamic yet disciplined, would not just be a squad addition. He’d be a signal — that Liverpool’s title win is a foundation, not a conclusion.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the type of signing that gets fans buzzing. Not just because Wharton is young and English, but because he genuinely looks like a Liverpool player. His intelligence off the ball, technical strength, and calmness under pressure scream Anfield material. He’s not flashy — and that’s a compliment.

We’ve already seen how Slot wants his midfielders to operate — neat triangles, controlled transitions, smart positioning. Wharton has shown at Palace that he can do all of that and more. For fans still mourning the departures of the likes of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, this is the kind of low-key but high-upside deal that could plug the leadership gap in the long run.

Yes, the price tag is hefty. But Liverpool paid similar for Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. If the recruitment team are convinced, then Wharton is worth the risk.

This isn’t about making headlines — it’s about making Liverpool stronger for the next five years. And that’s why this potential move feels very real, and very exciting.