Real Madrid hasn’t finished its transfer window yet, and a late twist could be coming. The Spanish club is seriously looking at Adam Wharton, a 21-year-old midfielder from Crystal Palace who’s already been called up by England.
The story came from Spanish paper AS, which noted that Wharton is under contract until 2029 and valued at around €80 million. To pull off the move, Madrid would probably need to sell, and the name people keep mentioning is Rodrygo.
Madrid searching for control in midfield
The squad is full of energy and young legs, but what’s missing is a real organizer, someone who can slow the game when needed and speed it up when it matters. Wharton is the option the board likes most right now. Despite his age, he’s been steady in the Premier League, showing composure on the ball and keeping his side balanced. That level of maturity explains why Liverpool, City and United have also kept tabs on him. The issue is that long deal until 2029, which gives Palace all the power.
If Madrid push for Wharton, it directly affects Rodrygo. The Brazilian forward has strong market value and could bring in a huge fee. Moving him would clear space in an attack already loaded with talent. But his exit would spark debate. On one hand, it frees the money for a big signing; on the other, the club loses a player who has already stepped up at key moments. The board has to decide whether to strengthen midfield or keep more depth up front.
A risky but calculated move
Going after Wharton shows long-term thinking, but it’s not without risks. He would be under immediate pressure wearing one of the heaviest jerseys in soccer. A price tag that high demands patience from fans and trust from the club, and those two don’t always match in Madrid. Whatever call the board makes next could shape not only this season but the direction of the team for years to come.