Liverpool to test Crystal Palace's resolve as they target 'outstanding' 20-year-old

Liverpool are one of a number of clubs keeping a close eye on Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton following his incredible form at Selhurst Park. 

The Reds were strongly linked with a move for the 20-year-old while he was at Blackburn Rovers, but the young midfielder joined the Eagles during this season's January transfer window instead.

Wharton signed for £18m, potentially rising to £22m, and has quickly solidified a starting place in Palace's engine room with some excellent displays - including in his side's 1-0 win at Anfield in mid-April.

His performances have been so impressive that there have even been tentative calls for him to be part of England's Euro 2024 squad this summer.

Liverpool may have missed the chance to sign Wharton in the winter window, but they may not have given up all hope of signing the talented midfielder.

LIVERPOOL EYE ADAM WHARTON

According to a report from TBR and Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are one of the clubs who have continued to monitor Wharton's progress since his move to London in January.

While Crystal Palace have suggested that the former Blackburn man is not for sale publicly, it's believed that the Eagles would 'find it very hard' to resist the opportunity to potentially more than double their money within the space of just six months.

Liverpool are, rather unsurprisingly, not the only elite club keeping tabs on the England U21 international, with Tottenham, Manchester United and Newcastle United among the Premier League clubs touted with interest.

On the continent, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Juventus are all keen on his signature.

Liverpool are not necessarily expected to target another midfielder in the upcoming transfer window after signing four last summer, but if they were to acquire someone in that department then it would likely be a defensive-minded player.

While Wharton does play in a deep role at times for Palace, he often features as part of a two-man midfield under new Eagles boss Oliver Glasner.

Wharton, who was described as 'outstanding' by the Premier League's record goalscorer Alan Shearer, has made 15 appearances in the league to date, registering three assists in his last seven outings.