Crystal Palace are confident midfielder Adam Wharton will stay after Liverpool’s pursuit cooled, giving the Eagles a rare boost as they sit 15th in the Premier League with 45 points. The 22‑year‑old, who helped Palace win the FA Cup and Conference League, is now a key figure in Andoni Iraola’s plans.

Why has Liverpool’s interest faded?

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider last month that Wharton was a top target for Liverpool’s midfield overhaul. Yet Iraola, who prefers to rebuild the squad after his Bournemouth stint, has shifted focus to other areas, especially a replacement for Mohamed Salah. This change means Palace can breathe, as the Spaniard is unlikely to chase Wharton aggressively.

How does Wharton fit into Iraola’s vision?

Iraola has hinted at a more dynamic, high‑pressing style at Selhurst Park. Wharton’s versatility and recent form – 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses in his last five outings, currently on a two‑game winning run – align with that approach. Palace manager Pierre Sage also praised the midfielder’s ability to link defense and attack, a trait that could become vital if the club continues to chase a higher league finish.

What does this mean for Palace’s transfer strategy?

With the Eagles still 40 points behind leaders Arsenal, retaining Wharton helps stabilize the midfield while other targets are pursued. Palace’s recent 1‑0 win over Rayo Vallecano on 27 May showed they can grind out results, and keeping Wharton under contract may force any suitor to meet a “huge” fee, according to Brown. The club’s reluctance to lose key players follows the departures of Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi in recent seasons.

What’s next for Wharton and the Eagles?

If Liverpool remains passive, Wharton is set to feature prominently this summer, especially as Palace looks to improve a goal tally of 41 scored and 51 conceded. The midfielder’s continued presence could be the difference between a mid‑table finish and a relegation battle, especially as other clubs like Tottenham and Manchester City are busy signing midfield talent. Palace’s confidence grows as the market shifts, and Wharton’s future now appears firmly at Selhurst Park.

Current context

Palace sit 15th in the Premier League, 45 points from 38 games, with a recent form of LDLDL. Their goal difference sits at –10, and they remain 40 points off Arsenal’s lead. This backdrop underscores why holding onto Wharton is a priority for a club fighting to climb the table.