Manchester City are reportedly gearing up for a January move to secure the services of Crystal Palace’s midfield prodigy, Adam Wharton.
Manchester City Eye January Swoop for Rising Star Adam Wharton
The 20-year-old has been on the radar of Europe’s top clubs following his meteoric rise, and Pep Guardiola’s side appears ready to make their interest official when the transfer window opens.
Wharton, who began his career at Blackburn Rovers, has enjoyed a remarkable journey from youth football to Premier League prominence. After breaking into Blackburn’s first team in 2022, the defensive midfielder quickly became one of England’s brightest young talents.
This potential led to Crystal Palace swooping in to sign him in early 2024, where he has since blossomed under the tutelage of manager Roy Hodgson.
Now a regular in Palace’s starting XI and a recent debutant for the England national team, Wharton’s stock has only risen further.
His composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and defensive solidity have caught the eye of Guardiola, who is said to see the youngster as a potential long-term replacement for the injured Rodri.
City’s struggles without Rodri have been apparent, with the Premier League champions enduring an uncharacteristic dip in form, losing five consecutive matches.
Rodri’s ACL injury is set to sideline him for the remainder of the season, and whispers about his future at the Etihad have only added to Guardiola’s urgency to strengthen the midfield.
Despite Wharton’s undeniable promise, prying him away from Selhurst Park won’t be easy. The Eagles are under no pressure to sell, given the 20-year-old’s contract runs until 2029. Crystal Palace value their young star highly, and any deal is likely to demand a significant fee.
Still, Manchester City are believed to be prepared to test Palace’s resolve. With Wharton’s name climbing higher on City’s wishlist, the January window could bring a fascinating tug-of-war between two Premier League sides – one keen to retain their emerging star and the other desperate to rejuvenate their midfield for the battles ahead.
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