Liverpool are preparing for life under new manager Andoni Iraola after the former Bournemouth boss was announced as Arne Slot’s replacement earlier this month.
The Reds endured a disappointing Premier League title defence last season, scraping a fifth-place finish while failing to reach the latter stages of any cup competitions which subsequently cost Slot his job.
Alongside a change in the dugout, two long-term servants in Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson also departed at the end of the campaign after nine and ten seasons at the club, respectively.
The Reds have already signed winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna and saw an opening bid of around 100million euros for RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande rejected earlier this week.
Their transfer business isn’t expected to stop there though as Iraola looks to sculpt his new team in his vision.
Liverpool in talks with Wharton
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Another player strongly linked with a switch to Anfield this summer is Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton who is courting interest from a number of England’s top clubs.
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are the midfielder’s “strongest admirers” and have “held talks” with the Englishman’s representatives, while Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are also in the mix.
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The 22-year-old, who reportedly wants to join, has been a sensation at Selhurst Park since his move from Blackburn Rovers in February 2024, playing 96 times and helping the Eagles to FA Cup and Conference League glory.
His rise has also coincided with a senior England debut, making four caps for the Three Lions before missing out on Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad this summer.
It is currently unclear exactly how much Wharton would cost, but £70million is the latest fee to be suggested with Palace expected to demand a significant figure.
Wharton is perfect for Liverpool
While Dominic Szobozlai was voted as Liverpool’s player of the season last term, elsewhere there were a number of inconsistent performers in the middle of the park, suggesting that the Reds’ core could do with a refresh.
Now with two-and-a-half years of experience at Premier League level, alongside a taste of senior international football, Wharton is clearly ready to play for one of Europe’s top clubs.
The 22-year-old would offer much-needed balance to the Liverpool midfield at the base, known for his ability to control the game and incredible football intelligence. Too many times last term, the Reds were caught out in possession, something Iraola will be looking to address immediately.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner described him as “one of the best midfielders in the world”, a significant claim for such a young player. However, there is no doubt that a move to a club of Liverpool’s stature could help Wharton’s trajectory continue to head upwards.