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Chelsea play unexpected role in Man Utd's Adam Wharton chase
Cameron Smith
- 3 Oct 2025 18:43 BST
- 4 min read
News
Chelsea could inadvertently play a key role in Manchester United’s pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton next year.
The Englishman, who was a surprise exclusion from Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the October international break, has been identified as a top target by the Man Utd hierarchy, and reports have speculated that he could be sold by Crystal Palace if a suitable offer is submitted in 2026.
Current ETV
Kees Smit
M, DM, AM (C)
AZ
Kees Smit
M, DM, AM (C)
AZ
ETV Range
€5.6M - €7.6M
The Red Devils have earmarked Wharton as one of three key midfield targets ahead of the January transfer window, alongside Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba, although they are expected to wait until next summer before intensifying their pursuit of his signature.
Wharton has also attracted interest from Real Madrid in recent weeks, as per reports, while Chelsea are long-term admirers of the 21-year-old, having failed to sign him during his time at Blackburn Rovers.
Kees Smit to Crystal Palace?
Real Madrid and Chelsea are also among the clubs interested in landing AZ Alkmaar youngster Kees Smit next year, according to The Daily Mail.
The Netherlands U21 international has already made 43 senior appearances for AZ, scoring three goals and providing five assists, and multiple elite clubs have reportedly sent scouts to watch him in action this campaign.
19 year-old Kees Smit with his first goal of the season 👊#UECL pic.twitter.com/461ZYIxCuM
— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) September 25, 2025
While Smit is being targeted by some of the biggest teams in Europe, The Daily Mail report that Crystal Palace are eager to win the race for his signature as a possible replacement for Wharton.
Oliver Glasner’s side believe they can offer a better career pathway to the 19-year-old, and AZ’s reported asking price of €23 million would likely be within their transfer budget.
Chelsea are expected to battle for Smit’s signature in 2026, however if they decide against finalising a deal, it could pave the way for Palace to secure his signature, which would likely help Man Utd in their bid to sign Wharton.
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