The Summer 2025 transfer window is destined to go down in Liverpool’s history as one of the club’s most iconic windows.
Under Arne Slot’s management, the team has abandoned its years of prudent investment strategy and shifted to an all-out spending spree. The Reds have broken the English transfer record twice: signing Florian Wirtz for £116 million and Alexander Isak for £125 million. Coupled with Hugo Ékitiké and Jeremie Frimpong, Anfield has become the focus of attention across Europe at one point.
However, despite the fanfare, on-field performances have failed to fully match the huge investment. Despite occasional brilliant displays, Liverpool have struggled overall recently. Currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, they are more than 10 points behind leaders Arsenal, with the title race already out of reach—even Champions League qualification requires a full effort to secure.
Slot’s side have picked up just 7 wins, 6 draws and 6 losses in their first 19 league games, conceding 26 goals—the worst defensive record among the current top-four teams. While Champions League victories over Marseille and Inter Milan have boosted morale, their league form has been inconsistent, and their control over games is often lacking. There is a growing feeling within the club that the squad structure remains unbalanced.
With the January 2026 transfer window closed, Liverpool continue to push forward with the “futurization” of their squad. Ryan Gravenberch has adapted well at defensive midfielder, but the club does not see this as a long-term solution.
The club has reopened negotiations for their top midfield target, Adam Wharton. The 21-year-old Crystal Palace and England midfielder has seen his value soar since joining Palace from Blackburn Rovers for £18 million. According to media reports, Manchester United and Real Madrid are also closely monitoring him.
But Wharton is attracted by Liverpool’s “stable long-term plan” and regards Anfield as his preferred destination. As a key member of Crystal Palace’s FA Cup and Community Shield-winning squad, his stats clearly explain why Slot is eager to push through this deal.
Wharton has started 20 Premier League games this season, establishing himself as one of the most consistent midfielders in the league. With an 80.2% pass accuracy rate and progressive passing stats in the top 10% of his position, he has shown the ability to play forward under pressure. Defensively, he brings the toughness Liverpool lack—winning over 90 duels and making 49 tackles this season, reflecting his mobility and positional discipline. But he is not just a defensive workhorse: from deep areas, Wharton has created 26 chances and provided 8 key passes, a rare feat for a defensive midfielder.
For Liverpool, this is not just another signing, but a move to address the issues that the summer spending spree failed to resolve. A new round of negotiations has recently begun, and Liverpool are now confident that Wharton will eventually join the club.
