Liverpool have already held discussions with the representatives of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, intensifying the race to sign the 21-year-old this summer.
Tottenham Hotspur have identified Wharton as a priority target after their pursuit of Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali collapsed, with that move now considered unlikely to materialise.
The north London club have shifted their attention firmly towards the Crystal Palace star as they look to strengthen their midfield options heading into next season.
Roberto De Zerbi is reported to be a huge admirer of the young midfielder, believing he possesses the technical ability and composure to control the tempo of a game.
De Zerbi also sees Wharton as someone capable of protecting the defensive unit from midfield, a quality that has made the player so highly regarded across the Premier League.
The 21-year-old has been hailed as “incredible” by those who have assessed him closely, underlining just how highly rated he is among top clubs right now.
Manchester United have also been monitoring Wharton for quite some time, as they look to add quality to their midfield during what is expected to be a significant summer rebuild.
Crystal Palace will not give up their prized asset without a fight and are expected to demand a premium fee for a player considered one of the most talented young midfielders in the country.
Liverpool’s involvement makes this a particularly complicated pursuit for Tottenham, given that the Merseyside club can offer Champions League football and a highly competitive project.
Wharton could also form a formidable partnership alongside Ryan Gravenberch at the heart of the Liverpool midfield, giving the Reds a strong and balanced base in the centre of the park.
Tottenham must now decide whether they are prepared to commit serious financial resources to win the race, knowing that both Liverpool and Manchester United are circling the same target.
The coming weeks are likely to prove decisive in determining which club ultimately lands one of the Premier League’s most coveted young midfield talents this transfer window.
