Despite completing six signings during the summer transfer window, Real Madrid continues to search for a midfielder capable of anchoring the center of the pitch. With the club having missed out on Rodri, they are now exploring alternative options to fill the role.
While Martin Zubimendi has been a long-term target, he may remain at Arsenal following the club's signing of Bruno Guimaraes, though Arsenal is not ruling out the departure of the Real Madrid-linked midfielder.
Consequently, Real Madrid has turned its attention to the Premier League, where Adam Wharton has emerged as their preferred solution.
Real Madrid views the Crystal Palace midfielder quite favorably, believing he is compatible with many of the star names currently in their squad. Coach Jose Mourinho is a significant admirer of Wharton, specifically valuing his ability to circulate possession effortlessly. Stylistically, the Englishman is considered very similar to Toni Kroos.
Although Wharton has been linked to the Santiago Bernabeu for a long time, the club's focus on other signings previously prevented a move from being considered. Now, with an urgent need for midfield reinforcements, Wharton has become a viable option for Mourinho.
Acquiring Wharton will be a challenge, as Crystal Palace holds significant leverage with the player under contract at Selhurst Park until 2029. The club values the midfielder at approximately €100 million, making him a more expensive prospect than Rodri, though he is also a significantly younger option.
Other transfer developments include Manchester United's interest in Eduardo Camavinga to solve a surprise problem, and the possibility of Endrick joining, while Roma awaits a decision from Real Madrid.
Additionally, there is ongoing speculation regarding where the summer's biggest free agents will sign. In other Premier League news, the league issued a statement explaining why Tottenham was not awarded a penalty against Leeds, denying Spurs midfielder James Maddison a major moment on his return from injury.
