Man City eye January swoop for Adam Wharton

Manchester City are targeting a January move for Crystal Palace central midfielder Adam Wharton, according to the Daily Mail.

The Premier League champions initially intended to wait until next summer to bolster their midfield options.

However, a combination of factors, including a recent slump in form and the season-ending injury to lynchpin Rodri, has forced Pep Guardiola’s hand.

Rodri’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium is also shrouded in doubt, adding further urgency to their pursuit. The Spaniard has been linked with Real Madrid.

Wharton broke through the ranks at Blackburn Rovers, where he turned heads with his ability to break down opposition attacks and punch the ball through the lines.

He joined Palace in the middle of last season and continued to shine. His impressive displays earned him a senior England call-up and a place in Gareth Southgate’s 2024 European Championship squad.

However, a hamstring injury sustained on international duty has limited his impact under Oliver Glasner this term.

Palace may eventually have to sell Wharton, but they probably won’t sanction a sale in January.

City are also considering Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who attracted Liverpool’s interest in the summer, as another potential midfield reinforcement.

Wharton’s signing could prove to be a masterstroke for City. The 20-year-old stepped up into the Premier League and thrived. He could improve immensely alongside the world-class talent at the Etihad.

Wharton is still young, and there’s ample room for further growth. He has all the tools to develop into one of the best in the top flight.

However, Palace sit close to the relegation zone. They will want to keep their best assets as they look to climb up the table in the coming weeks.