Sources: Tottenham not put off as “outstanding” target could cost £100m
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank remains determined to secure a deal for Adam Wharton this summer, even as Crystal Palace continue to demand an astronomical fee.
Despite Palace’s insistence that only a nine-figure offer could tempt them into selling their prized midfielder, sources close to the situation reveal that Spurs have not abandoned their pursuit.
Frank views Wharton as a transformative player, capable of significantly bolstering Tottenham’s midfield options and adding fresh competition to the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr.
The north London club, fresh off their Europa League triumph, are actively seeking further reinforcements in a bid to consolidate their resurgence and challenge for more silverware.
While the delay surrounding Morgan Gibbs-White’s move due to Nottingham Forest’s legal complaint has drawn headlines, Spurs are quietly but persistently working behind the scenes to land additional high-caliber players, with Wharton firmly in their sights.
The England international, who has already earned praise from legends like Alan Shearer, continues to attract significant attention, not only for his technical quality and composure but for his ability to command matches from deep.
Tottenham’s interest in Wharton has not diminished despite Crystal Palace’s hardline stance. The Eagles are in a strong negotiating position, with the 21-year-old tied to a long-term contract worth £35,000 per week that still runs for four more years.
Palace reportedly view Wharton’s potential on par with that of Declan Rice and have used Rice’s £105 million move to Arsenal as a benchmark for any prospective deal.
They believe Wharton could emerge as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, making him indispensable for their current plans.
Wharton’s 2024/25 campaign, though slightly hampered by injury, saw him play a pivotal role in Palace’s FA Cup success.
His performances have drawn widespread acclaim for their maturity and tactical intelligence, qualities that have not gone unnoticed by Frank and his recruitment team.
Tottenham sources suggest that the club may not be deterred for long, even with the £100 million valuation looming large. With the transfer window open until September 1, Spurs have time to strategize and potentially test Palace’s resolve with a formal offer.
There’s an understanding within Tottenham’s leadership that signing Wharton would represent a record-breaking acquisition.
Yet, the club’s ambitions align with making bold moves to return to the top echelon of English football. Frank, appointed to bring long-term structure and identity to Spurs’ play, is believed to be fully behind this aggressive approach in the market.
Wharton fits his profile for a modern, press-resistant, ball-carrying midfielder—an ideal fit for the system he wants to implement.
Gaining Wharton’s signature won’t be straightforward, especially with Palace firm in their valuation and fans rallying to keep one of their brightest stars.
However, Tottenham’s renewed sense of purpose after ending their trophy drought is translating into tangible action. The club is eager to capitalize on the momentum of their Europa League win, and Wharton remains one of their top targets.
Even as the negotiations remain in limbo, the message from Spurs is clear—they’re not backing down.
The coming weeks could see this high-stakes transfer saga unfold further. If Tottenham decide to meet Palace’s demands or find a structure that suits both parties, they may land a player widely tipped to become a central figure in England’s midfield for years to come.
For now, Thomas Frank and his team continue to watch, wait, and plan—ready to strike when the time is right.