Blackburn Rovers Face Battle To Keep Key Midfielder

Blackburn Rovers are braced for further interest in midfielder Adam Wharton, with Wolverhampton Wanderers the latest Premier League team to be linked, according to journalist Alan Nixon.

Wolves are on the hunt for a replacement for Matheus Nunes, who has reportedly gone on strike in order to force through a move to champions Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s team have already seen a £47 million bid rejected for the Portuguese international, with the West Midlands club holding on for £60 million. The two clubs are now locked in talks over the potential deal as the Blues look to secure their man before the transfer window closes on Friday.

 

It is claimed that Wolves have asked for England under-21 international James McAtee to be included as part of the transfer, but alternatives are also being lined up should City refuse their demands. According to Nixon, the Premier League club have added their name to the ever-growing list of admirers for Blackburn youngster Adam Wharton, who is valued at £15 million.

The 19-year-old is already seen as a key member of the Jon Dahl Tomasson’s squad at Ewood Park, featuring in all five of Rovers’ fixtures so far this season. It seems as though it is only a matter of time before the Premier League come knocking, with Crystal Palace, Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion amongst those interested.

 

Blackburn know they face a fight and would reluctantly agree to a sale, but only if they can secure the midfielder back on loan for the remainder of the season. However, Wolves are looking for an immediate replacement, but the 1995 Premier League champions have the midfielder under contract until 2027, giving them the upper hand in the situation.

Writer’s View

Adam Wharton is clearly a player destined to play in the Premier League, but he only made his professional debut last season and is certainly one for the future.

 

Wolves are right to monitor the situation, particularly as Crystal Palace have already made their interest concrete. The loan-back clause which Blackburn are insisting on suits all parties, but doesn’t solve Gary O’Neil’s potential midfield problem. They are also one of the favourites to be relegated this season and Wharton would be best steering clear of this deal and concentrating on his development at Ewood Park.