Liverpool transfer news today: Reds emerge as 'favourites' for Tottenham-linked Crystal Palace star

Liverpool have reportedly moved ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton this summer.

Wharton has established himself as a key part of the Palace side since he completed a move from Blackburn Rovers in February 2024.

Despite spending time in the treatment room, Wharton still managed to start 21 of his 27 competitive appearances in the 2024-25 season, including four starts in Palace's successful FA Cup campaign.

In fact, Wharton started the final three games of Palace's run to their first-ever FA Cup trophy, helping his team secure European football for next season. 

Wharton's impressive performances have led to speculation over a move away from Selhurst Park, with Liverpool and Tottenham believed to be among his potential suitors. 

Liverpool emerge as Wharton favourites

According to The Sun, Wharton is not pushing for a move this summer, having indicated that he is 'happy to stay' at Palace for at least another season.

The player's transfer stance has seemingly made Liverpool the favourites to secure his signature when he eventually leaves Oliver Glasner's side.

Like Wharton, the Reds would rather wait until next summer to pursue the transfer after spending significant funds to sign Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. 

They also look set to splash out £82.3m to add Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike to Arne Slot's squad. 

From Palace's perspective, they will be keen to retain the services of one of their most prized assets, especially as they may face a battle to keep Marc Guehi, Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta at the club. 

How much could Wharton cost? 

Palace are certainly under no pressure to sanction Wharton's departure this summer, with the player under contract until June 2029.

A recent report claimed that the Eagles would demand £100m to part ways with the England international before the September 1 deadline.

It is difficult to see Palace dropping their asking price for next summer's transfer window, unless Wharton struggles for form or with injury in the 2025-26 campaign.

However, Liverpool may be a better position to strengthen their midfield next summer, having spent considerable funds to bolster other areas of the pitch during the current window.