Liverpool transfer news: Crystal Palace stance on Adam Wharton 'revealed' amid Reds interest

Crystal Palace have reportedly decided against selling Adam Wharton despite interest from both Liverpool and Manchester City.

The Reds began life under Andoni Iraola in the 2026-27 Premier League with a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James' Park.

Liverpool twice found themselves behind before rescuing a point through Dominik Szoboszlai's stoppage-time penalty, but the result once again exposed some of the weaknesses that continue to linger within Iraola's squad.

There is a growing feeling among pundits that Liverpool's midfield lacks the defensive presence required to function effectively, particularly with the club yet to bring in a specialist holding midfielder.

That vulnerability was laid bare during Newcastle's opening goal, strengthening the argument that Liverpool need to address the position urgently following Curtis Jones's departure.

Liverpool learn Crystal Palace stance on Adam Wharton

Liverpool have admired Wharton for around 12 months, although they have yet to make a serious move to bring the midfielder to Anfield.

The Reds have reportedly considered an ambitious approach for the former Blackburn Rovers player, who is believed to command a valuation of around £100m.

According to Football Insider, however, Palace have no intention of allowing their prized asset to leave, while Wharton himself is reportedly content with his development at Selhurst Park.

Manchester City also made an enquiry for the 22-year-old a few days ago, but the Citizens appear to have moved in a different direction, with Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi reportedly closing in on a move to the Etihad Stadium.

Liverpool need to be hyperactive in the closing stages of the window

The Reds have devoted much of their attention to finding new wingers, but despite the considerable noise surrounding their pursuit of attacking reinforcements, no major deal has yet materialised.

Meanwhile, other areas of the squad have arguably been left unattended, with the need for a genuine defensive midfielder becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

Ryan Gravenberch is undoubtedly a talented midfielder, but there remains a legitimate question over whether he can provide the defensive discipline and positional security required to operate as Liverpool's long-term solution at the base of the midfield.

Trey Nyoni has been touted as a potential successor to Jones after impressing during pre-season, but throwing a 19-year-old into such an important role for an entire campaign would represent a significant gamble.

Liverpool still have time to rectify the situation, but after the warning signs at St James' Park, Iraola and the club's recruitment team need to be hyperactive in the closing stages of the window rather than discovering in January that an obvious problem was allowed to linger.