Transfer News: Liverpool set to price out Man United for Eagles midfielder

Liverpool are reportedly prepared to outmuscle Manchester United financially in the pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, who is a top target for the Red Devils.

Manchester United have identified central midfield as a major priority for the summer 2026 transfer window, particularly after confirming that Casemiro will leave Old Trafford when his contract expires in June, freeing up both funds and a key position to reinforce.

United’s midfield recruitment plans have seen them target a trio of highly rated Premier League talents: Wharton, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, with Wharton increasingly viewed as a top option due to Baleba’s high price tag.

Early plans to sign Baleba last summer reportedly stalled due to Brighton’s reluctance to sell and a valuation of around £100 million, with the Seagulls referencing the sale of Moises Caicedo to Chelsea.

This prompted United to pivot toward Wharton as a slightly more attainable alternative. Reports suggest United are willing to invest heavily, as much as £70 million; however, recent reports suggest Liverpool are prepared to go even higher.

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool have now entered the summer race for Wharton and are prepared to outprice Manchester United with an offer of up to £80 million, as they are keen on landing the 21‑year‑old England international ahead of next season. 

Wharton is contracted to the Eagles until June 2029 and valued by clubs at a minimum of £65–80 million. Recent reporting indicates Liverpool’s scouts and hierarchy view him as a long‑term midfield solution, particularly given their desire to add industry and control in central areas after earlier spending on other positions.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have been linked to Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi for their immediate midfield needs. As Pulse reported, Besiktas are open to selling for a fee in the region of £10 million.