Liverpool are reportedly considering a player-plus-cash deal for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, with Harvey Elliott potentially included as part of the package.
The proposal is still at an early stage, but negotiations could accelerate if Liverpool, Palace and both players are able to reach an agreement. Wharton has reportedly emerged as one of Liverpool’s key midfield targets, and Elliott could be used to help bring down the financial cost of the deal.
According to sports editor Danny Gallagher, the situation could develop quickly. However, new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is expected to take time to assess Elliott during pre-season before making a final decision on his future.
That would be a logical approach, given that Iraola has only recently taken charge and is yet to work extensively with the 23-year-old.
Elliott returned to Liverpool following a difficult loan spell at Aston Villa, where he struggled to establish himself. During the 2025/26 campaign, he made just 11 appearances and played 284 minutes across all competitions, leaving his long-term future at Anfield uncertain.
Liverpool must now determine whether Elliott can revive his career under Iraola or whether using him in a deal for Wharton would be the better option.
Why Liverpool Want Wharton
Wharton has quickly established himself as one of Crystal Palace’s most promising young midfielders, attracting attention with his composure and technical quality.
The England international is particularly effective in deeper midfield areas, offering strong passing, progressive distribution, excellent vision and the ability to control possession under pressure.
Those qualities could make him an attractive addition for Liverpool as they look to strengthen their midfield and improve their ability to build attacks from deep.
Could Elliott Reduce the Cost?
Crystal Palace are believed to value Wharton highly, meaning a straight cash deal could require a substantial investment from Liverpool.
Including Elliott in the agreement could potentially lower the overall cost, with the structure reportedly capable of saving Liverpool around £40–50 million depending on how both players are valued.
That could be one reason the possibility of a swap-plus-cash arrangement is being explored.
Iraola Faces a Major Decision
Liverpool would not necessarily find it easy to let Elliott leave.
The midfielder has previously shown his value to the Reds, particularly under Jürgen Klopp, with his creativity, energy and versatility making him a useful squad player.
Although his opportunities declined last season, Iraola’s arrival could give Elliott a fresh opportunity to prove himself.
The manager’s high-intensity style could suit the midfielder, making his performances during pre-season crucial to determining what happens next.
Liverpool’s Wider Transfer Plans
The Reds are also expected to strengthen other areas of the squad this summer, with attacking targets such as Bradley Barcola and Yan Diomande reportedly on their radar. Lamine Camara has also been linked with a move to Anfield.
With Liverpool needing to manage their transfer budget carefully, a player-plus-cash deal for Wharton could offer an appealing solution if the club decides to push ahead with the move.
For now, the proposal remains in its early stages. Much could depend on Iraola’s assessment of Elliott, but if the new manager decides the midfielder is surplus to requirements, negotiations over Wharton could gather significant momentum.
