LFC Journalist: “Adam Wharton would be perfect” for what Liverpool need in midfield | OneFootball

Why Adam Wharton Would Be Perfect for Liverpool’s Midfield Rebuild

Quiet Market Doesn’t Mean No Plans

Speaking on the Media Matters podcast with Anfield Index, Lewis Steele offered a measured take on Liverpool’s midfield outlook this summer — less headline-chasing, more strategic thinking. While all eyes are on potential arrivals at full-back and in attack, the middle of the pitch remains, for now, under the radar.

“It’s all a bit quiet on the midfielders front at the moment is what I would say,” Steele admitted, casting some doubt over immediate moves in that area. Yet within that calm, he dropped a telling line — one that hints at the calibre of player Liverpool are still watching carefully.

Photo: IMAGO

Wharton the Standout After Wembley

Reflecting on the FA Cup Final, Steele didn’t hesitate to point out who stood out. “Watching the FA Cup Final on Saturday, Adam Wharton would be perfect,” he said. It wasn’t a rumour, nor an indication of ongoing negotiations, but a clear suggestion that Wharton’s profile aligns precisely with what Liverpool could use.

At just 20 years old, Adam Wharton showcased his poise, range and composure on the big stage for Crystal Palace. That Wembley performance didn’t go unnoticed, and while Steele confirmed that Liverpool have watched him and do like him, he also made it clear: “There’s nothing to say that they will go for him.”

Balancing Budget and Priorities

Liverpool are clearly active in the market this summer, but the club is operating within a defined budget. “They will spend big this summer but it’s not a bottomless pit of cash,” Steele reminded listeners, signalling the importance of prioritising key areas.

With Frimpong and Kerkez likely full-back targets and interest in attacking players like Florian Wirtz, midfield additions may depend on how deals unfold elsewhere. This makes Wharton’s potential fit even more relevant — young, homegrown, tactically intelligent and likely more cost-effective than continental options.

Jones, Bajcetic and Flexibility

In the meantime, existing options could take on more responsibility. Steele noted that Curtis Jones might be asked to play deeper next season. “Maybe Curtis Jones can play a bit more deep this season if he plays,” he said, also referencing Stefan Bajcetic as one who might return to the fold.

But these are solutions built on hope rather than depth. As Steele cautioned, there’s always the concern about overuse or injury. “I would worry about Gravenberch because he’s played so much this season… he’s due an injury, let’s put it that way,” he remarked.

Perfect Fit, But Will Liverpool Move?

While Wharton isn’t confirmed as a target, Steele’s comment was as clear as it gets: “Adam Wharton would be perfect.” It’s not hype — it’s an informed opinion from someone who understands what Arne Slot is building at Anfield.

With youth, balance, and intelligence, Wharton represents the type of signing that Liverpool often target: under the radar until the moment it counts.