Chelsea are now interested in signing Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, according to reports.

Journalists Ben Jacobs and Alex Crook claim that the England international has been “added” to the Blues’ list of transfer targets.

However, it is believed that getting a deal over the line before the transfer deadline on Monday will be “tough”, especially as Palace are keen on keeping hold of Wharton for at least another season.

It has been previously reported that the 21-year-old is valued at around £80m by the Eagles, which will be a fee that could yet put off Enzo Maresca’s side from making an offer.

Chelsea will have competition for the player

Wharton’s performances for Palace over the last 18 months have attracted the attention of several different teams. Manchester City, Liverpool and even Real Madrid have been credited with an interest.

Of course, none of these clubs are likely to make their move before the current transfer window closes. City are focused on recruiting Gianluigi Donnarumma, Liverpool want Isak, while Real are set to keep faith with their current squad.

It does leave the Blues with an opportunity to sign Wharton over the next few days, but it will hinge on Palace being open to the deal, as well as lowering their asking price. At the moment, that doesn’t seem that likely.

Is Wharton being targeted as an alternative to Xavi Simons?

With Simons having joined London rivals Tottenham, some fans may be thinking that Wharton has been identified as an alternate option.

However, the Crystal Palace player is more of a no.8 or even a no.6, rather than an attacking midfielder like Simons.

It does suggest that Chelsea have decided to go in a different direction with their next signing after Alejandro Garnacho.

Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here