Latest developments
- Arsenal have held talks with Crystal Palace over signing Adam Wharton.
- Palace value the defensive midfielder at around £54 million.
- The 20-year-old only arrived at Selhurst Park in February.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Source close to clubs involved
Arsenal have held talks with Crystal Palace about signing their defensive midfielder Adam Wharton in January, but there is some disagreement over the value of the 20-year-old.
That is being reported by caughtoffside.com, who claim their sources have a close understanding of the situation and that Liverpool and Man City are also interested.
Value (3/5): Palace placed a high price tag
Since arriving from Blackburn last winter, Wharton's rise was dramatic, earning himself a place in England's UEFA Euro 2024 squad and making his international debut.
His current Transfermarkt valuation is £25 million, but Palace want £54 million for the player under contract until 2029. The Gunners are said to want to make a deal happen for £45 million, but with other big clubs interested, they may have to dig deeper than they would like.
Suitability (4/5): Taken the Premier League in his stride
His impact may not be quite so profound this season as the Eagles have struggled, but it is clear Wharton's ability to break up play and create turnovers would be beneficial to any Premier League side, with even many of the top clubs not possessing a player with his abilities.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Arsenal well stocked at DM
For the moment, Arsenal look stronger in defensive midfield than they do anywhere else further forward.
However, both Jorginho and Thomas Partey are out of contract in the summer, and while Wharton may have a bide his time, a slot alongside Declan Rice at the heart of Mikel Arteta's side could be his come next season.
Logic (3/5): Anfield could be better option
The path to the first-team at Arsenal is clear for Wharton, but at Liverpool it is both clear and short. The Reds' only player in Wharton's position is Wataru Endo, who is rumoured to be departing in January. Once Rodri returns to fitness, it will be almost impossible for the Englishman to dislodge him at City.
As for Arsenal, a more all-round centre midfielder, plus a striker, seems a better use of their transfer budget.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
Wharton can bring a lot to the Arsenal table in time, but there are other clubs where he can make a more immediate impact, while the Gunners have greater needs than another expensive defensive midfielder.
