Real Madrid identify their next €100m superstar signing

Real Madrid have reportedly earmarked Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton as their priority transfer target for 2026 amid their pursuit of a new central midfielder.

Los Blancos are determined to bolster their options in the middle of the park this summer, after failing to sign a replacement for Luka Modric last year, and Wharton has emerged as a top candidate following his immense form in the Premier League.

The 22-year-old has established himself as one of the best midfielders in England over the past 12 months and he is widely expected to be selected by Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel for this summer’s World Cup.

Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have also been heavily linked with the former Blackburn Rovers man in recent months, but Real Madrid are ready to intensify their pursuit of his signature ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window.

That is according to Spanish publication Fichajes, who claim that Real Madrid want to sign Wharton ahead of fellow targets Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool) and Rodri (Manchester City).

It’s reported that Crystal Palace will demand at least €74 million to sell Wharton this summer, although Real Madrid internally believe that a fee worth €100m will instead be required to finalise a deal for the 22-year-old.

Will Adam Wharton join Real Madrid?

Wharton has 37 appearances across all competitions for Crystal Palace so far this season, registering five assists, and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) is currently at a career-high of €63.4m.

In addition to Real Madrid, Man Utd have also earmarked the England international as a top target for this summer, although widespread rumours suggest that his compatriot Elliot Anderson is favoured by the Old Trafford hierarchy.

As a result, this could pave the way for a Bernabeu switch, but Los Blancos must first finalise a transfer fee with Crystal Palace, before agreeing personal terms with Wharton himself.

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