Newcastle United are preparing for another key summer in the transfer market—and a new midfield target has emerged.
According to CaughtOffside, Newcastle are among the clubs ready to battle Manchester United for the signature of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. The 20-year-old England youth international is attracting serious interest from top Premier League sides, with Eddie Howe’s side reportedly showing strong intent.
Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is said to be driving his club’s interest, but Newcastle are not far behind. The Magpies are laying early groundwork as they look to strengthen their midfield depth for the 2025/26 campaign.
Newcastle transfer news: Adam Wharton emerges as Newcastle United transfer target
Wharton has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Selhurst Park, earning widespread praise for his composure on the ball and maturity beyond his years. His performances have not gone unnoticed.
Newcastle view Wharton as a long-term option to compete alongside Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Lewis Miley in midfield. With Joelinton’s future still uncertain and squad depth a clear issue this season, Wharton fits the profile of a high-ceiling, Premier League-proven player who can develop under Howe’s guidance.
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While Crystal Palace hope to tie the midfielder down to a new contract, CaughtOffside confirms that no formal offer has been made yet. That gives Newcastle a potential opening.
Manchester United interest grows but Newcastle are pushing
The report claims that Manchester United are also accelerating their interest, with Amorim viewing Wharton as a successor to the ageing Casemiro and Christian Eriksen. United legend Rio Ferdinand has even compared Wharton to Michael Carrick and publicly urged his former club to sign him.
But Newcastle are not just bystanders. Sources indicate that both clubs are among the strongest contenders at this stage—and Newcastle’s clear pathway to first-team minutes, recent cup success, and strong core of young talent could sway the decision in their favour.
A transfer battle worth watching
It is still early in the window, but this is one race Newcastle appear keen to be a part of. With Champions League qualification still possible and a rebuild continuing under Howe, the Magpies know they must stay one step ahead.
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Wharton would bring composure, progression and vision to Newcastle’s midfield—a player who could grow into a regular starter for years to come.
With Palace bracing themselves for bids and Newcastle already laying the groundwork, this is a story worth tracking closely.