​Liverpool have reportedly shifted their summer targeting to Adam Wharton as their primary midfield target after deciding against pursuing Joao Gomes, according to Football Transfers. The change in direction signals a clear internal preference as the club continues planning under Andoni Iraola and sporting director Richard Hughes. The article states that Liverpool “have made Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton their top target this summer, having rejected the opportunity to sign Joao Gomes from Wolves,” a development that marks a notable departure given Gomes “was considered the leading candidate to sign for the Anfield club” earlier in the process.
There is more detail behind that decision. Liverpool “spoke to the agent of the 25-year-old, who was prepared to move to Anfield on his existing terms,” and “the Brazilian was eager to sign for Liverpool.” Yet after evaluating the opportunity, the club “had a change of heart and opted for a different type of profile, targeting Wharton instead.” The phrase “different type of profile” stands out. Wharton has long been admired across the Premier League for his composure, passing range, and ability to control the flow of a game from midfield. The report adds that Liverpool “have put the former Blackburn man front and centre of their plans,” underscoring how central he now is to the club’s thinking.
Of course, a clear obstacle remains. Crystal Palace are known to be price-conscious sellers and have made their terms explicit. Football Transfers reports that “Palace are eager to retain the central midfielder for at least one more season” and would be “targeting a price in excess of £100m” if Liverpool press the issue. Liverpool’s willingness to walk away from Gomes, especially with Aston Villa reportedly closing in on a £35 million move, suggests confidence in their shortlist and belief in the profile they want. It also reflects a market where top-tier midfielders are scarce and increasingly expensive.
Wharton stands out as an ambitious target and perhaps the brightest English midfield option realistically available this summer. Whether Liverpool are prepared to meet Palace’s valuation remains to be seen, but the message is clear: Wharton is the name to watch. From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the report makes a considerable amount of sense. Wharton appears to possess the calm, authoritative presence to dictate matches, a quality the midfield has sometimes lacked during pivotal moments. If the recruitment team is truly chasing a “different type of profile,” this appears to be a deliberate shift toward greater control, intelligence, and long-term potential.
There will be debate over the price, and rightly so. Paying “in excess of £100m” for a midfielder brings inevitable pressure, expectations, and scrutiny. Even so, elite talent in the Premier League market now commands enormous sums, and Liverpool have already shown they are willing to move decisively for the right profile and the right fit.