Adam Wharton has been linked with a move away from Crystal Palace in recent months, with Manchester United and Real Madrid hoping to sign him.

According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Manchester United are willing to take the lead in the race to sign Adam Wharton. They are prepared to make a move for him during the January transfer window. The report claims that the player could be valued at around €45 million and that Manchester United are ready to take a firm step in order to get the deal done in January.

On the other hand, Real Madrid are hoping to wait until the end of the season before making a move for the England international. That could see them miss out on the player, especially if Manchester United manage to secure an agreement with a winter swoop.

It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Both clubs need more quality and depth in the middle of the park, and the 21-year-old would be an exceptional acquisition. Adam Wharton is one of the finest young talents in the Premier League, and he has all the tools to develop into a future star. He is already a key player for Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

Manchester United and Real Madrid need Wharton

Manchester United need someone who can control the tempo and protect them defensively. Adam Wharton certainly fits the profile. Similarly, Real Madrid need someone with his skill set, especially after the departures of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. The Spanish outfit have struggled to control games after their departure. The 21-year-old midfielder will add control and defensive cover to the side.

The opportunity to join both clubs will be exciting for the player. However, Real Madrid are competing at a higher level and they have the quality to fight for major trophies regularly. On the other hand, Manchester United are going through a period of rebuilding. It will be interesting to see what the player decides. In addition, the €45 million valuation seems unrealistic for a player of his potential. Crystal Palace will want a lot more for him.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have been linked with the English international as well. The Reds have been overly reliant on Ryan Gravenberch, and they need more quality in the middle of the park. The Crystal Palace star could be the ideal long-term acquisition for them.