With the Club World Cup underway and clear gaps still present in midfield, Real Madrid is quietly working behind the scenes on a surprise transfer target few expected: Adam Wharton.
While the likes of Martín Zubimendi and Angelo Stiller had been widely reported as top targets for Xabi Alonso’s system, recent developments show a shift in direction from the Madrid board and it’s caught many by surprise.
Zubimendi and Stiller Off the Table
Real Sociedad’s Zubimendi had long been Alonso’s preferred option a player with tactical intelligence, composure, and leadership. But with the Spaniard now set to join Arsenal, that door has closed.
Similarly, Stiller known for his Kroos-like qualities was considered a more affordable plan B. But Madrid’s attention has now moved elsewhere, toward a rising Premier League star.
Adam Wharton: The Hidden Gem
Sources close to the club confirm that Adam Wharton, the 20-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder, is now on Madrid’s radar. Despite his low profile outside England, Wharton has become one of the breakout stars of the Premier League, impressing with his maturity, passing range, and composure under pressure.
Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is said to have spoken highly of Wharton to the coaching staff a recommendation that has carried real weight. Bellingham, who has trained with Wharton in England’s youth and senior squads, reportedly believes he has the mentality and skill set to thrive at the Bernabéu.
A Difficult Deal — But Not Impossible
Wharton won’t come cheap. Crystal Palace are reluctant to sell, and the midfielder only recently signed a new contract that ties him to the London club until 2029.
While an initial fee of €45 million has been mentioned, Madrid are aware that the price could rise significantly, especially with several other top clubs monitoring the player closely. The fact that Wharton has already debuted for the England senior team adds more leverage to Palace’s position.
Despite this, Real Madrid are seriously considering a move especially as doubts remain over whether Franco Mastantuono alone will be enough to strengthen the midfield for the long season ahead.
A Strategic Bet
With Toni Kroos retired, and Luka Modrić entering his final months at the club, Madrid knows a midfield rebuild is not a question of if but when. While Adam Wharton may not be a headline name just yet, the club sees his potential to develop into a long-term solution.
Should the move happen, it would mirror the kind of forward-thinking signing that brought Bellingham, Valverde, and Camavinga to the club all before they became global superstars.
