Chelsea interested in World Cup-snubbed Adam Wharton, sources tell Flashscore

The 22-year-old has produced another fine campaign at Selhurst Park and recently marked Europa Conference League success with Crystal Palace, further enhancing his growing reputation across the Premier League.

The Eagles do not wish to lose the player and hope he chooses to stay and lead them into a Europa League campaign next season. Yet Chelsea are among the clubs closely monitoring his situation.

The Blues have scouted Wharton consistently throughout the season and are regarded as one of the strongest contenders to make a move to test the waters.

Chelsea are actively seeking midfield reinforcements this summer.

While speculation persists around the future of Enzo Fernandez, sources indicate that the club's interest in Wharton is unrelated to whether the Argentine remains at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's pursuit is perhaps more closely linked to uncertainty surrounding players such as Romeo Lavia and Andrey Santos.

Either way, the club is slightly altering its approach to the next transfer window. In recent times they have focused heavily on signing young prospects, but sources have confirmed to Flashscore that Chelsea are now prioritising more established Premier League talent as they look to speed up their development under the current project.

Wharton is viewed internally as an ideal fit for the direction Chelsea are taking.

The London club have also explored deals for other Premier League midfielders, including Elliot Anderson and Alex Scott. However, there is a growing belief within football circles that Anderson is set to join Manchester City, with Chelsea now thought to have cooled their interest.

Scott remains a player attracting attention, with Manchester United also monitoring the Bournemouth midfielder should they miss out on their primary targets.

With Wharton not involved in the upcoming World Cup, there is no immediate pressure for him to decide his future.

Despite disappointment over his England omission, Wharton has taken the setback in stride.

“I’m not going to sit here and cry about it,” he said. “I don’t dwell on those things too much.”