The battle between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid doesn't rest, not even in summer. Both clubs are already working to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. This time, the name that has ignited the dispute is Adam Wharton, a young English midfielder just 21 years old.
A talent that doesn't go unnoticed
Wharton, currently with Crystal Palace, has shown meteoric growth. He arrived from Blackburn for a modest amount, but today his value has skyrocketed. From being valued at €3.5 million (3.5 million euros) just two years ago, he has now risen to cost around €70 million (70 million euros), according to sources from the Daily Mail.
His performance in the Premier League has been so remarkable that he has already been drafted by the English national team. A call that confirmed what many already thought: he is one of the midfielders with the most future in European soccer.
Barça's interest
In Can Barça, they haven't taken long to react, Laporta and his team see in Wharton an opportunity to rejuvenate the midfield. However, the problem is the same as always: money. The blaugrana club prioritizes renewals and doesn't seem willing to shell out the €70 million (70 million euros) that Crystal Palace is asking for.
Moreover, there is an evident overbooking in the midfield. Players like Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, or Fermín compete for minutes. Bringing in Wharton, although attractive, could generate even more competition and unbalance the squad.
Madrid, in a better position
Florentino Pérez, meanwhile, doesn't take his eyes off him. Real Madrid has already shown in recent years that they don't hesitate to invest heavily in young players with potential. Camavinga, Tchouaméni, or Bellingham are recent examples.
With Kroos's departure on the table and Modric in his last months as a Madridist, the club seeks a progressive renewal, and Wharton fits perfectly into that profile. Moreover, Madrid has the financial muscle to undertake the operation without compromising its economic balance.
Final verdict: Camp Nou or Bernabéu?
Everything points to the battle between Florentino and Laporta for Wharton being set. But the balance slightly tilts toward Bernabéu. Due to economic power, space in the squad, and sports project, Real Madrid starts with an advantage.
Even so, the market is unpredictable, and in this game, any move can change the board. What is clear is that Adam Wharton has arrived to stay. His future is about to pass through one of the two giants of Spanish soccer.