Liverpool set to rival Tottenham for the signature of 21-year-old English midfielder

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Aaryan Choksi | Last updated Oct 12, 2025 1:24 PM ET

Adam Wharton faces an uncertain future at Crystal Palace as top clubs linger for his signature

Tottenham have made a flying start to the new campaign under Thomas Frank. The Lilywhites are unbeaten in their opening seven matches across all competitions and currently sit third in the Premier League table, just two points behind leaders Arsenal. It is a testament to how dramatically Frank has transformed the team’s outlook and performance levels in a short span of time.

However, despite their impressive start, there remain a few glaring issues within the squad that need to be addressed in the upcoming transfer window. Chief among them is the need for a progressive midfielder to operate in the No. 8 role alongside João Palhinha.

So far, Thomas Frank has rotated between Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr in that position, but neither player has fully convinced the Danish manager that they are the long-term solution. Given how integral a dynamic, ball-carrying midfielder is to Frank’s tactical set-up, Spurs must prioritise signing one when the transfer window reopens.

Tottenham need to fend off competition to land Adam Wharton

Recent reports suggest that Tottenham have identified Adam Wharton as the perfect fit for the No. 8 role. The 21-year-old midfielder has made a huge impression since breaking into the Premier League with Crystal Palace, and Spurs are reportedly ready to make him a central figure in their long-term project at N17, with the promise of regular first-team football.

However, landing Wharton is expected to be far from straightforward. According to reliable journalist Lewis Steele (via Daily Mail), Liverpool remain interested in the young Englishman after missing out on him during the summer transfer window. Steel noted:

“As for Wharton, he is another player that Liverpool like. Again, though, we are in October and it is nothing more than that just yet with Palace trying to tie him down to a long-term contract and boost his sale price. The Reds are not the only Premier League club circling. He is a supremely gifted footballer.”

Liverpool’s continued interest means Tottenham could face stiff competition if they decide to make a formal approach. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are reportedly in no rush to sell their rising star. The Eagles have already opened talks with Wharton over a new deal in an attempt to keep him at Selhurst Park, or at least strengthen their negotiating position ahead of future transfer discussions.

All eyes will now be on Tottenham as they weigh up their options ahead of the January transfer window. While Adam Wharton remains their ideal target, completing a deal for the 21-year-old could prove extremely difficult given the level of competition and Palace’s firm stance. Unless Spurs can pull off a miracle in the coming months, they may be better off identifying alternative options if they are serious about reinforcing their midfield this winter.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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