Crystal Palace's private stance on Adam Wharton future as Man Utd change transfer plan
Crystal Palace are reportedly relaxed about the future of highly-rated England midfielder Adam Wharton, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent weeks
Crystal Palace are unfazed about the future of Adam Wharton despite rumoured transfer interest from Manchester United. The 21-year-old has been linked with a move to the Red Devils as Ruben Amorim looks to bolster his midfield.
Even though there have been no discussions regarding a new contract for the England international, Palace are planning for the future with him as a key part of their team. He still has four years remaining on his current deal at Selhurst Park.
Wharton made the switch to Palace from Blackburn in a deal estimated to be around £18million plus add-ons in January 2024. He quickly became a fan favourite and was rewarded with a spot in the England squad at Euro 2024.
Although his opportunities with England have been limited since Thomas Tuchel took over as the national team's head coach, Wharton has continued to shine and make a name for himself at Palace in the Premier League. As per the i paper, Amorim is believed to be a big fan of Wharton and United may now choose to prioritise him over signing Carlos Baleba, who was previously reported to be a summer target for the Red Devils.
It's suggested that Baleba's inconsistent start to the season at Brighton has raised some eyebrows at Old Trafford. As Brighton are expected to demand more than £100m for Baleba, it's thought that Wharton may be available for less.
However, Sky Sports have reported that Palace are relaxed about Wharton's future and believe they can persuade him to stay at the south London club, even if there is interest from United and other sides.
Last weekend, Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish revealed his thoughts on Wharton's situation, stating that the club are ready to fight to keep him. "Look, I think Adam at some point will want to play, either in the Champions League with us, if we could make that happen, or probably with another club," he said.
"He's an extraordinary talent. I think right now, and I can't speak for Adam, but I think he's focused on his time at Crystal Palace.
"He had a broken season last season with the groin issues that he had, which a lot of young players get. This season he's completely focused on putting the games in, getting in the England squad, being a regular for us. I think he's very committed to the club.
"I mean, if Manchester United want Adam Wharton, that's nothing surprising really. The fact of the matter is he's got a long contract to run. There's no pressure on us to do it and I don't think there's any real pressure from the player either."
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