Liverpool ‘Considering Formal Bid’ to Sign 21-year-old Premier League Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Transfer News: Reds Eye Palace Prodigy Wharton as Midfield Revamp Continues

In what could be one of the most astute moves of the summer window, Liverpool are reportedly considering a formal bid for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, according to an exclusive report by TEAMtalk. The 21-year-old has enjoyed a breakout Premier League campaign, and his rise from Blackburn Rovers to England international in under 18 months has not gone unnoticed — least of all by the reigning Premier League champions.

Wharton’s Rise Draws Elite Attention

Since joining Palace for £18m in February 2024, Wharton has made 26 top-flight appearances, contributing two assists and a multitude of impressive performances. His all-round game — the ability to dictate play from deep, break up counter-attacks, and maintain defensive discipline — has quickly propelled him into the conversation among England’s brightest midfield prospects.

Photo: IMAGO

Fellow Palace star Eberechi Eze hailed him as “an incredible player” and “a joy to play with,” in comments made to BBC Sport last year. That glowing assessment only adds to the mounting hype.

With a contract running until 2029, Crystal Palace have no immediate financial need to sell. TEAMtalk report that the South London club are likely to demand north of £60m for their midfield gem — a figure reflecting both his present value and future potential.

Slot’s Vision: Youth, Energy and Depth

After leading Liverpool to their 20th league title in his debut campaign, Arne Slot is wasting no time in shaping the next phase of his Anfield tenure. Sources told TEAMtalk that Wharton has been identified as part of a “long-term investment” strategy aimed at complementing the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch.

This is not simply about adding numbers; Slot is targeting profiles that align with his brand of vertical, high-energy football. Wharton, with his defensive awareness and forward-thinking passing, fits that mould.

The Dutchman’s tactical demands require midfielders who can press aggressively, recycle possession quickly, and spring attacks through incisive passing — all areas where Wharton has impressed throughout the 2024-25 season.

Photo: IMAGO

Chelsea Competition Could Heat Things Up

Liverpool are not alone in their admiration. Chelsea have also expressed strong interest. Wharton’s potential partnership with Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez has reportedly intrigued the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, with TEAMtalk stating that Maresca views the player as an “ideal fit.”

While Chelsea are actively rebuilding their squad around a youthful core, Liverpool’s recent success and return to the Champions League spotlight may offer a decisive edge in the player’s decision-making.

Palace chairman Steve Parish has a reputation for standing firm on player valuations. As TEAMtalk note, “any move from Liverpool would likely require a substantial bid to tempt Palace into negotiations,” echoing similar transfer sagas in recent windows.

All Eyes on Anfield as Wharton Decision Looms

Liverpool’s interest is emblematic of their renewed strategy post-Klopp — investing in emerging domestic talent while reinforcing a squad already full of technical and physical quality. Whether a formal offer is submitted remains to be seen, but the anticipation is building.

As the transfer window looms, Wharton may soon find himself at the centre of one of the summer’s most intriguing sagas. Liverpool’s pursuit could reflect a broader trend in elite recruitment — valuing Premier League-proven youth just as highly as headline-grabbing overseas imports.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this is exactly the sort of rumour you want to see emerge. Adam Wharton ticks almost every box for what this team needs moving forward — youth, composure, tenacity, and that uniquely modern ability to play both sides of the ball.

With Arne Slot already delivering a Premier League title in his first year, this isn’t about catching up anymore — it’s about staying ahead. Bringing in someone like Wharton not only secures the midfield for years to come but also creates tactical flexibility in the present. A midfield trio of Mac Allister, Gravenberch, and Wharton could provide the technical quality and defensive bite needed to compete on all fronts.

Wharton’s English roots and Premier League experience also reduce the adaptation risk. And in the post-Brexit football landscape, homegrown stars carry extra strategic value. Fans will hope this is more than just speculation and that Liverpool act swiftly before Chelsea or others steal a march.

If Slot’s “masterplan” includes locking down players like Wharton, then the title this season might just be the beginning of a very special era at Anfield.