Liverpool have been doing significant groundwork on Wharton in recent weeks, with talkSPORT reporting that sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG head of football Michael Edwards have both identified midfield reinforcement as a priority.
The interest is driven partly by uncertainty over the futures of Curtis Jones — linked with Inter Milan — and Alexis Mac Allister, who has two years remaining on his contract and has been connected with Real Madrid.
Wharton's profile fits squarely what Arne Slot needs. The Blackburn Rovers academy graduate is composed in possession, disciplined off the ball and capable of dictating tempo — qualities that complement the midfield engine of Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, who have been the two constants in Liverpool's engine room this season.
Competition is significant. Manchester United are also firmly in the running, with Casemiro departing in the summer and Bruno Fernandes having just 14 months left on his contract at Old Trafford, creating an urgent need to reshape the midfield.
Real Madrid are monitoring Wharton as part of their own anticipated summer overhaul following a second consecutive trophyless season.
Wharton is under contract at Selhurst Park until 2029 and is understood to believe he is ready for a step up to Champions League football.
Palace are not under financial pressure to sell but have set their price, and the destination will ultimately depend on which club can match it and offer the most convincing project.