Crystal Palace have enjoyed a remarkable rise over the past year — lifting their first major trophy and qualifying for European football for the first time in the club’s history. After last season’s FA Cup triumph, the Eagles carried that momentum into the UEFA Europa Conference League, adding midweek football and a new level of attraction to their growing project.
Currently sitting 10th in the Premier League and 9th in their European group, Palace are determined to keep progressing — with a key focus on retaining the players who have driven their recent success. The summer saw Eberechi Eze join Arsenal, while Marc Guehi came close to leaving for Liverpool, underlining the importance of keeping hold of their remaining stars.
At the centre of those efforts is Adam Wharton. According to GiveMeSport’s YouTube channel, Palace are in talks with the midfielder over a new long-term contract at Selhurst Park.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed the discussions, stating: “They [Crystal Palace] want to extend his contract. Palace are on it, and have spoken to his representatives several times about their intention to offer a new deal.” Romano added that the club hold Wharton in high regard for his professionalism, even amid growing interest from major clubs such as Manchester United.
United are targeting midfield reinforcements in the coming transfer windows, with a shortlist featuring Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, and Wharton himself. Should Palace secure Wharton’s signature, it would significantly strengthen their position in any future negotiations — potentially complicating United’s plans under Ruben Amorim.
If Wharton commits to Palace, United may be forced to turn their attention toward Baleba, who fits their profile for a long-term holding midfielder, or Anderson, who offers greater positional flexibility. However, renewed contracts at selling clubs often drive up prices — something that could clash with United’s current wage structure and PSR constraints.
For Palace, extending Wharton’s deal would be a logical step for a side balancing domestic ambitions with European demands — but for Manchester United, it would mark a notable setback in their pursuit of one of their top midfield targets.