According to journalist David Lynch, Wharton is a player of interest to Liverpool, but it’s not clear yet if he fits Iraola’s vision for the team based on the current squad.
“What I can say again in terms of my understanding on Wharton is I know for a fact they’ve liked him for a while. It’s all about what Crystal Palace want,” Lynch noted, adding, “I know he’s been a long-term target, but I don’t know whether Liverpool consider him a good fit for Iraola football.”
Iraola favors a frantic, high-paced style with a strong focus on winning second balls and high pressing. It’s an aggressive, front-foot approach, and it aligns with what some Liverpool fans have hoped to see after a period of more measured play.
But is Wharton the biggest midfield need for Liverpool right now? There are arguments on both sides.
What do Liverpool need in the midfield transfer market?
The summer needs for Liverpool will depend on which midfielders the club plans to keep. There have been discussions about Curtis Jones potentially leaving, while Alexis Mac Allister’s future at Anfield remains a topic of debate.
Ryan Gravenberch had a rocky season, but a substantial new contract suggests the club believes he can still reach his potential with a bright future ahead of him.
Dominik Szoboszlai performed well for Liverpool last season, while Florian Wirtz also performed above some expectations. The £116m playmaker could thrive under Iraola’s attacking system.
Wharton is talented and capable, but he’s not the ball-winner the engine room might be crying out for.
His forward-thinking passing is a strength that players like Wirtz or Szoboszlai can provide, but what Liverpool may need before adding more playmakers is an elite-level defensive midfielder.
If Iraola is supported with a defensive midfielder and a top attacker to replace Mohamed Salah, the midfield and attack could offer a very exciting prospect for Anfield in the coach’s first season.
