Real Madrid have fallen behind in the race to sign one of Europe's most promising midfielders as Liverpool are edging closer to sealing his signing. The Reds are set to continue a rebuild this summer after spending record-breaking amounts of money last summer.
The La Liga giants' transfer chiefs are tasked with focusing on strengthening midfield and that includes targeting playmaking talents. There has been an improvement shown under caretaker manager Alvaro Arbeloa but it's clear one or two new midfielders are needed.
Madrid were showing interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton who has impressed during his time in London. But they are at risk of missing out on the 21-year-old.
Liverpool move ahead of Real Madrid for midfield starlet
Madrid might have to move quickly if they want to sign one of English football's most celebrated talents. Nicolo Schira reports that Wharton is getting closer to Liverpool and that he has agreed to join the club on a five-year contract.
Adam #Wharton is getting closer to #Liverpool from #CrystalPalace. The midfielder has already given his availability to join #LFC with a 5-years contract. #transfers #CPFC
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) January 26, 2026
Wharton looks set to leave Palace in the summer and Anfield appears to be his likeliest destination. He has been a mainstay in Oliver Glasner's side over the past year and was crucial as Palace won the FA Cup their first major trophy last season.
The English youngster's ball-playing abilities and reading of the game are second to none and he'd be an excellent option in this Madrid team. But Arne Slot's defending champions are in need of a reboot amid a worrying nosedive this season.
There's no certainty that Slot will be in charge this summer as his future is in doubt due to his side's struggles. If they weren't to qualify for the Champions League, it might mean he is dismissed, but could also have an impact on their bid to sign Wharton.
Wharton could join Xabi Alonso at Liverpool
Talk of Slot being sacked has inevitably been met with claims that Xabi Alonso is the man that Liverpool want to replace him. The Spaniard parted ways with Madrid earlier this month but would be open to a swift return to management at Anfield.
Alonso oversaw 24 wins in 34 games in charge at the Estadio Bernabeu. But problems behind the scenes alongside a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final brought an end to his seven-month reign.
If the 44-year-old were to replace Slot he could be eager for Wharton to join him on Merseyside. He wanted a player of this profile signed at Madrid last summer but the transfer chiefs snubbed his suggestion of Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi.