The LLM Podcast

August 21, 2026
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Abhinav Ennazhiyil

Crystal Palace rebuff Manchester City approach for Adam Wharton

Crystal Palace have firmly rejected an enquiry from Manchester City regarding midfielder Adam Wharton, informing the Premier League champions that the England international is not for sale this summer.

Adam Wharton playing for Crystal Palace

The 22-year-old is among multiple midfield options identified by City, but Palace have no intention of sanctioning a departure ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline. Wharton remains under a long-term contract at Selhurst Park that runs until 2029, having joined the club from Blackburn Rovers in January 2024 for a fee of £22 million.

City's Midfield Overhaul

Manchester City are navigating a significant period of transition in the centre of the pitch following high-profile departures. Rodri, Bernardo Silva, and Tijjani Reijnders have all departed the Etihad Stadium, while Newcastle United are in ongoing discussions over a move for Nico Gonzalez.

To bolster their ranks, City secured the signing of Elliott Anderson from Nottingham Forest in a blockbuster £116 million transfer and have maintained an active interest in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez alongside French prospect Ayoub Bouaddi.

Wharton's Rise at Palace

Since arriving in south London, Wharton has established himself as a pivotal figure in Palace's midfield. Last season, he made 53 appearances across all competitions, contributing one goal and seven assists while helping the club secure the UEFA Europa Conference League title and a 15th-place finish in the Premier League.

Wharton has racked up 96 total appearances for Palace and was a key contributor to the side that lifted the FA Cup in 2025. On the international stage, he has earned four senior caps for England since making his debut in 2024.

With their Premier League opener against Bournemouth rapidly approaching, manager Enzo Maresca remains eager for additional reinforcements as City race against the clock to complete their squad rebuilding before the window shuts.

Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7524114/2026/08/20/adam-wharton-manchester-city-crystal-palace-transfer-news