Advisers of Real Madrid target urge him to stay in the Premier League for another year before next big step | OneFootball

Itis known that Real Madrid are closely following the development of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.

Since his move from Blackburn Rovers in 2024 for €21 million, Wharton has risen quickly in the Premier League and is now seen as one of the brightest midfield talents in English football.

Ed Aarons of The Guardian, who is well connected to Crystal Palace, has shared fresh insights about Wharton’s future and his potential move to the Santiago Bernabeu to SPORT.

While Madrid are keeping tabs, Aarons made it clear that Wharton and his representatives prefer to stay in England for at least another year.

“I think he is almost ready for Real Madrid, but I think his people, him, his agents and everybody don’t want him to leave yet.

“They want him to play another season in the Premier League, playing for Palace. Next summer I think there is a good chance that he will be available for transfer,” said Aarons.

The Luka Modric comparison

Wharton’s playing style has already drawn big comparisons, with Aarons suggesting that he reminds him of one of Madrid’s greatest midfielders – Luka Modric.

“It’s going to cost a lot of money, but maybe he’s ready. If I have to compare him to anyone, he reminds me of Modric. They have an incredible ability to detect passes.

Adam Wharton is unlikely to leave this summer. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

He makes everything look very easy, he controls the game from a midfielder back position and he has a fantastic leg.

“Both legs are very good, but mainly the left. He uses them very well and has the ability to make quick passes and also to beat opponents with quick movements.”

How much would he cost?

For Madrid, Wharton fits the exact profile of a long-term midfield replacement. However, there is one major obstacle, which is Crystal Palace’s valuation.

According to Aarons, “As for the price, right now I think it is €80 million. That’s probably a good estimate of how much Palace could accept, but just to keep in mind, they’ve just sold Eberechi Eze.

“That’s why they won’t want to sell Wharton in this market. And as I said, his agents and he, I guess, also think he wants another year at least at Palace.

“If Real Madrid were to send an offer in this market, I think Palace would make it very difficult.”

With Madrid seeking the next big midfielder to follow Modric’s legacy, Wharton has emerged as one of the most exciting names on their list.

But, as things stand, the Spanish giants may have to wait until summer 2026 before making a serious move.