Real deal Wharton is ready for the biggest stage

The Red Devils are believed to be monitoring the 21-year-old who has shone in the Eagles engine room – despite picking up a disappointing red card in Sunday’s defeat to Chelsea.

Former Palace striker Clinton Morrison is desperate for the England international to stay put at Selhurst Park but believes the player will be a huge star whatever happens.

“For me, he's the real deal,” Morrison said. “He's still got a lot of learning to do, but he's a fantastic, intelligent footballer.

“He's at a good young age as well. He's improving, getting better all the time, and gaining experience. I think the chairman [Steve Parish] knows he’s going to have a few offers for him in the summer, so he'll just sit tight.

“He's still got a few years left on his contract, so they won’t be in a rush, they know his potential and I’m sure they’ll do right by Adam Wharton, whatever the circumstances.”

United are understood to be looking for a replacement for Brazilian midfielder Casimero who will leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season.

A Wharton departure would be a further blow for Palace fans after the exit of Marc Guehi to Manchester City, an unsettled Jean-Phillip Mateta seemingly heading for the door, and the recent news that boss Oliver Glasner will walk in the summer.

Wharton has developed into an impressive midfield force since arriving in south London from his hometown club Blackburn Rovers in 2022. With three caps for England, the remainder of the season is hugely important for a man determined to land a place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad.

“He will need to play well from now to the end of the season to try and make that England squad, which I think he should do because I think he's a terrific talent.”

Speaking to Freebets, Morrison added: “I know what can happen when you lose your best players, evidently you start worrying but I've seen this play out many times and Palace have always been all right. I hope it's the same this time!”