Crystal Palace Set to Sign Blackburn Rovers Midfielder Adam Wharton

Crystal Palace is on the verge of securing the signature of highly-talented Blackburn Rovers midfielder Adam Wharton. The initial fee agreed between the two clubs is reported to be £18 million, with the potential to rise to £22 million. Wharton, a 19-year-old talent who emerged from Blackburn’s academy, has already made 51 appearances for the club.

Despite having a bid of £18.5 million rejected last week, Crystal Palace has now managed to secure a deal with Blackburn Rovers. Wharton’s older brother, Scott, also plays for Blackburn. In the current season, Adam has appeared in 26 matches and scored two goals.

Blackburn Rovers boss Jon Dahl Tomasson, in an interview after the FA Cup match against Wrexham AFC, acknowledged the bid for Wharton and the possibility of him leaving. Tomasson expressed pride in the young player, highlighting his significant potential and the joy he brings to the club. The coach also mentioned that every player has ambitions, and if a player like Wharton receives the opportunity to play in the Premier League, it becomes a difficult choice.

Crystal Palace’s imminent signing of Wharton indicates their intent to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the season. The club is expected to finalize the deal before the January transfer deadline, and Wharton is expected to join the Premier League side directly, ruling out any possibility of a loan deal.

With the significant injection of funds from Wharton’s sale, Blackburn Rovers will now be able to invest in strengthening their squad. A forward and an experienced center-back are the top priorities for the club. Although Nat Phillips, a defensive target, has opted to join Cardiff City, Rovers have other targets in mind. Duncan McGuire, a forward from Orlando City, has reportedly been on their radar, with a fee of £2.3 million agreed. Another potential target is Jerry Yates, although Swansea‘s reluctance to sell unless it is a permanent deal may change with the cash influx from Wharton’s sale.