Liverpool have identified Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as their primary transfer target, turning down the opportunity to sign Joao Gomes from Wolves, according to an exclusive report from FootballTransfers. The change in direction comes after sporting director Richard Hughes began assessing midfield options following Dominik Szoboszlai’s recent contract extension.
Initial consideration was given to Gomes, with the 25-year-old reportedly eager to join the Anfield club on his current contract terms. However, Liverpool’s recruitment team ultimately decided to pursue a different profile of player, leading them to prioritize Wharton instead. Gomes is now expected to complete a £35 million (€41m) move to Aston Villa.
Wharton, despite being a controversial exclusion from Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad, has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Real Madrid. Liverpool have now placed the 22-year-old at the forefront of their summer transfer plans. The former Blackburn Rovers player has consistently impressed with his performances in midfield for Palace.
Crystal Palace are reluctant to sell Wharton, particularly after losing Eberechi Eze to Arsenal and Marc Guehi to Manchester City last season. The club is reportedly demanding a fee exceeding £100m (€118m) for the midfielder, citing Elliot Anderson’s recent £116m move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City as a benchmark. Liverpool have demonstrated a willingness to spend significantly on transfers recently, having secured Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz for British record fees last summer, suggesting they may be prepared to meet Palace’s valuation.
This shift in focus indicates Liverpool are seeking a midfielder with different qualities than Gomes, potentially prioritizing Wharton’s passing range and creative ability. Securing Wharton would significantly bolster Liverpool’s midfield options as they prepare for the upcoming season.
