Chelsea Joins Race for Championship Star Adam Wharton Following Rejected £18.5m Bid
Chelsea Football Club is reportedly considering a move for Blackburn Rovers’ rising star, Adam Wharton. The 19-year-old midfielder has been in impressive form this season, scoring two goals and providing three assists in the Championship. Crystal Palace is also said to be pursuing a deal for Wharton, but Chelsea’s interest adds another dimension to the race for his signature.
Wharton caught the attention of Chelsea during their Carabao Cup clash earlier this season. The club’s sporting director, Paul Winstanley, has been closely monitoring the young talent’s performances and recently watched him in action for England’s Under-20 national team. With a valuation of £25 million, Blackburn is holding out for a substantial bid and has already turned down an offer from Crystal Palace worth around £18.5 million.
Despite signing a five-year contract with Blackburn just last month, Wharton is reportedly open to a move that guarantees him regular playing time rather than being loaned out in the following season. This preference may work in Chelsea’s favor if they decide to make an official offer before the January transfer window closes.
Chelsea has yet to make any moves in the current transfer window, but they have recalled promising midfielder Cesare Casadei from his loan spell at Leicester City. The club is also rumored to be interested in adding more attacking firepower to their squad before the window shuts. While they have reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign Karim Benzema, they are still linked with a surprise move for Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran.
In addition to potential incoming transfers, Chelsea faces uncertainty regarding the future of key midfielder Conor Gallagher. The 21-year-old’s contract expires in 18 months, and the club is open to offers for the Englishman. Three top-half Premier League clubs have expressed interest in acquiring Gallagher’s services, further complicating his future at Stamford Bridge.
As Chelsea prepares for their upcoming Premier League match against Liverpool at Anfield, the club finds itself in a crucial period of decision-making. With the race for Adam Wharton’s signature heating up and the potential departure of Conor Gallagher, Chelsea’s transfer strategy will play a significant role in shaping their future success.