Real Madrid Interested in Premier League Midfield Sensation Adam Wharton

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.

Why Real Madrid Need Midfield Reinforcements

Over the past two years, Los Blancos have lost two of the greatest midfielders in their history.

Toni Kroos retired after Euro 2024, while Luka Modric left the Bernabeu this summer to join AC Milan on a free transfer at the age of 39.

Despite those exits, Real Madrid have not yet brought in a direct replacement.

Dani Ceballos came close to leaving the club during the summer transfer window, which would have left Carlo Ancelotti’s successor Xabi Alonso even lighter in central areas.

That lack of depth is now driving Madrid’s renewed interest in young midfielders across Europe.

How Good Is Adam Wharton?

Adam Wharton, 21, has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young midfielders since joining Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in January 2024.

Known for his composure on the ball, ability to dictate tempo and intelligent passing range, Wharton has drawn comparisons to Kroos.

But unlike the German, the England international also relishes defensive duties, making him a rare hybrid between a No.6 and No.8.

That versatility is exactly what Real Madrid are missing in their current squad.

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Fabrizio Romano: Real Madrid Interested in Adam Wharton

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Real Madrid are “monitoring the progress” of Wharton with a potential move pencilled in for 2026, after the FIFA World Cup.

Wharton was not interested in leaving Palace this summer, and Crystal Palace had no intention of selling either.

However, with elite clubs already tracking his progress, speculation over his future is expected to intensify in the next 18 months.

Madrid are expected to be among the frontrunners, although they will likely face competition from top Premier League sides.

Wharton isn’t the only Crystal Palace player Los Blanocs are keeping tabs on either, as Real Madrid could target Marc Guehi as an alternative to long-term target Ibrahima Konate.

Real Madrid Transfer News

According to The Athletic, Madrid held internal talks late in the transfer window about bolstering their midfield.

Alongside Wharton, 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar star Kees Smit was also discussed, while Ceballos’ future remains uncertain.

The club are also monitoring Nico Paz, the 21-year-old Argentine playmaker they sold to Como last summer. Madrid hold a €10m buy-back clause and could activate it in the future.

Meanwhile, injuries have stretched Xabi Alonso’s options further.

Eduardo Camavinga and Endrick are nearing returns, but Ferland Mendy remains sidelined, and Jude Bellingham is recovering from shoulder surgery.

When Could Real Madrid Move for Wharton?

Historically, Real Madrid have avoided major January transfers, preferring to wait until the summer.

That makes a move for Wharton after next summer’s World Cup far more likely than in the winter transfer window.

For now, the 21-year-old remains focused on his development at Crystal Palace, but Madrid’s interest underlines just how highly regarded he is at the top level of European football.