After a historic season where Crystal Palace shocked everyone by beating Manchester City to win the FA Cup, one of their standout players has caught the eye of several European giants. We’re talking about Adam Wharton, a 21-year-old midfielder who’s become a key part of Oliver Glasner’s system—and now one of the hottest names in the summer transfer market.

From rising talent to Premier League standout

Wharton, who joined from Blackburn Rovers for just over €21 million in January 2024, wasted no time locking down a starting spot in midfield. Calm on the ball, tactically sharp, and an excellent passer, he’s nothing like the usual physical, box-to-box British midfielders. His quick rise made him one of the Premier League’s breakout stars, and his value has shot up to around €70 million—a price tag that hasn’t scared off clubs like FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, or Liverpool.

Europe’s top clubs are keeping tabs

As for Barcelona, the young Englishman would be a great fit for Hansi Flick’s style of play. Still, with so much competition in midfield and the club’s financial constraints, signing him won’t be easy. That said, the club’s sporting directors really like Wharton’s profile—especially his ability to control the tempo of the game, something Barça has lacked at times this season.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid see him as a potential long-term replacement for Toni Kroos, who just said goodbye to the club. Dani Ceballos could fill that role, but over at Valdebebas, they’re looking for someone more solid and with greater upside. Reports say Juni Calafat, the man in charge of strategic signings, has been keeping a close eye on Wharton’s development.

Alongside the Spanish giants and Liverpool, clubs like Chelsea and Manchester City are also interested. Still, Wharton is under contract until 2029, and with Crystal Palace now able to offer European football, he might be tempted to stick around for at least another season. Even so, with the transfer window about to open, expect his name to be all over the headlines this summer.