Tottenham Hotspur are already looking forward to next season after hopes of a positive end to this season look bleak. 12th in the League and slim chances of the Europa League have left fans frustrated and disappointed, as they look to be heading towards another trophyless season.
A step in the right direction for Spurs has emerged, with talks of midfield revamp ahead of the summer transfer window emerging and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is the primary target.
Spurs reports state that the midfielder has all the attributes to develop into a “real top-class player” in the future. The 21-year-old is a perfect fit for Ange Postecoglou’s system who could look to pair him with Archie Gray, forming the foundation of a young midfield core.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the 21-year-old would fit the profile of signing that “Spurs are looking at right now.”
However, any football fan will know a signing for Spurs is never as straightforward as it looks.
Since he arrived at Selhurst Park in January, Wharton has quickly established himself as one of the most impressive young midfielders in the Premier League.
His technical ability, composure under pressure, and defensive work rate make him a rare all-rounder in midfield.
Unlike many left-footed players, Wharton is exceptionally comfortable on his right, allowing him to turn sharply and play quick passes without being overly reliant on shifting his body.
His ability to make key passes and progress the ball from deeper positions makes him a useful option under Big Ange who likes to play an attacking brand of football, and not keep possession and play sideways football.
Statistically, Wharton’s impact has been remarkable.
He currently ranks 1st among all Premier League midfielders in progressive passes, through passes, and sliding tackles per 90 minutes. He’s also 2nd in progressive actions and through passes completed, highlighting his ability to break defensive lines while maintaining defensive solidity.
These numbers paint the picture of a midfielder who thrives in both buildup play and defensive transitions.
Spurs’ interest in Wharton looks to be a larger strategy to build a young, high-potential squad. The recent additions of Archie Gray from Leeds United and Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich highlight this direction.
While Tel is a loan signing the obligation to buy included in the clauses seems to point in the direction of a future signing.
Gray, despite spending much of the season filling in as a defender, is a natural midfielder with excellent ball-carrying ability. Pairing him with Wharton would provide Tottenham with a dynamic midfield duo capable of dictating play from deep.
The Daniel Levy Problem: Will Spurs Act Quickly Enough?
While Tottenham’s interest in Wharton makes perfect sense on paper, and fans seem to be on board with it, history suggests there’s reason to be sceptical.
Daniel Levy has a long track record of dragging out negotiations, missing out on key targets, or failing to meet selling clubs’ asking prices—issues that have cost Spurs in the past.
An example as recent as Marc Guehi emerges, as Spurs tried to sign him during the January window amidst their injury crisis but failed to do so. In the summer of 2023, Levy was in talks to sign Edmond Tapsoba which unfortunately didn’t go through as well.
With Wharton, the risk is clear. Crystal Palace have no intention of selling, and with the midfielder contracted until 2029, they hold all the leverage in negotiations.
Spurs will need to present a significant offer to test their resolve, but Levy’s reluctance to overpay could once again lead to a drawn-out saga that allows rival clubs to swoop in.
The likes of Manchester United and Juventus are reported to be interested in the English midfielder which means Spurs should act soon and decisively.
Although Wharton has remained relatively injury-free throughout his career, Tottenham will be wary when signing and conducting medicals considering their injury crisis.
Wharton missed two months earlier this season after undergoing groin surgery, however, his positive return to action suggests he has fully recovered and his performance remains relatively unaffected.
