Liverpool have now made contact to register their interest in Adam Wharton, sparking an £80m race with Real Madrid to sign the England midfielder.
Liverpool launch move to sign Wharton
A year ago, the Reds were on their way to winning the Premier League title in Arne Slot‘s first season in charge. 12 months later, even the most pessimistic Liverpool fan wouldn’t have predicted the downfall that the Dutchman and his side have endured this season, especially after they spent over £400m in the summer.
Hugo Ekitike’s achilles injury against Paris Saint-Germain just about sums Liverpool’s season up. He’s now set to miss the rest of the year and more, marking the third long-term injury that a Liverpool signing has suffered in the last 12 months.
Liverpool accelerating move to sign dream Ekitike replacement in £75m deal
Liverpool have set their sights on a new attacker after Hugo Ekitike’s injury.
Whether those at Anfield decide to replace the Frenchman whilst they wait for his return remains to be seen this summer. The timing certainly isn’t helpful, given that they’ve already got to replace Mohamed Salah and fix their midfield problem.
Slot, however, is already prepared to make some big transfer decisions when the transfer window swings open.
“Much has been said that the club is in a transition. The club has sold eight or 10 players to make money to sign five or so very talented players. We have to sell to buy. We are losing some players on a free transfer. It is a big challenge in the summer but the club has shown this model works.”
On the midfield front, it seems like a homegrown star may take priority if Curtis Jones heads for the exit door.
According to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, Liverpool have made an enquiry to sign Wharton, registering their interest alongside Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The England international is reportedly keen on a new challenge this summer, even though Palace are reluctant to let him leave – setting a whopping £80m price-tag.
£80m Wharton would transform Liverpool midfield
Liverpool’s midfield has gone from their biggest strength to an undeniable weakness. Ryan Gravenberch’s limited passing range has been exposed; Alexis Mac Allister has suffered an alarming physical drop-off; Jones has had injury problems once again and Dominik Szobszlai has been left to pick up the pieces.
The priority must be to add some physicality to Slot’s side this summer, whilst also welcoming a midfielder who can progress play and break down low blocks in the process. Wharton, as a result, is an ideal candidate.
|
PL 25/26 |
Mac Allister |
Wharton |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
2,206 |
2,200 |
|
Duel Success |
45.1% |
49.4% |
|
Chances Created |
26 |
32 |
|
Tackles |
43 |
60 |
|
Recoveries |
93 |
135 |
The midfielder’s recovery numbers particularly stand out as something that Liverpool have been lacking all season. As the Premier League continues to evolve, having a complete star to turn to will be crucial if the Reds are to climb back into title contention next season.
Dubbed “fantastic” by Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, Wharton will have a major decision to make if both Liverpool and Real Madrid come calling for his signature this summer.