Manchester City are reportedly considering a swap deal with Crystal Palace to secure Adam Wharton’s services. The deal could see James McAtee heading to Selhurst Park as part of the negotiation, with a combined player-and-cash offer on the table.
DETAILS:
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are eyeing a major shake-up during the January transfer window with a potential move for Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. Reports suggest that the Eagles have shown a strong interest in 22-year-old James McAtee, with a £25 million fee likely to be involved.
This interest could pave the way for a swap deal, with Manchester City offering McAtee in exchange along with a cash sum to secure Wharton’s services. The Daily Star reports that this arrangement could see City potentially parting with McAtee and at least £35m to land the 20-year-old Wharton.
Wharton, an England international, has been sidelined recently with injury but boasts a price tag of £60m following his impressive six-month stint at Selhurst Park last season. The midfielder initially joined Palace for just £18m from Blackburn, but his performances have skyrocketed his value.
WHY WHARTON IS ON THE RADAR:
Pep Guardiola is reportedly a big fan of Adam Wharton’s skill set and potential. The young midfielder impressed during his loan stint at Selhurst Park, showing a mix of tenacity and talent. Despite his injury struggles, Wharton remains a sought-after target, and his value continues to grow with performances that align with Premier League standards.
Whether or not Wharton would be open to making the move is yet to be confirmed. If Palace’s price demands are met and he sees the move as the right opportunity, Wharton could find himself making the switch to Manchester in the near future.
CITY’S STRATEGY:
With their sights set on Wharton and the possibility of securing him through a swap deal, Manchester City’s strategy relies heavily on flexibility. McAtee’s role as a young and talented academy graduate could make him the perfect bargaining chip for the deal.
The question remains whether Palace would see McAtee as a viable addition to their squad or if negotiations will stall. Additionally, Wharton’s willingness to leave Selhurst Park at the right price could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this transfer saga.
CITATIONS:
- Daily Star reporting on potential swap deal
- Transfer valuation reports for Adam Wharton (£60m) and James McAtee (£25m)
- Performance reports from Wharton’s loan spell at Crystal Palace
KEEP IN MIND:
Manchester City would likely need to put at least £35m along with McAtee to make the deal work.
Wharton’s injury status could complicate negotiations.
McAtee’s role as a young, talented option could attract attention from Palace depending on his performances.
