Chelsea have discovered a potential advantage in their pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton that could prove decisive in negotiations.
Wharton has attracted serious interest from Stamford Bridge as Alonso seeks to strengthen his central midfield options, though any transfer may depend on whether Enzo Fernandez departs the club.
Sources indicate the London side have monitored Wharton for an extended period, with his current Selhurst Park contract running until summer 2029. A move for the England international is expected to require an investment of approximately £100m.
The situation remains uncertain, with questions about whether Chelsea will make an approach and whether Wharton would even be available at this late stage of the window. However, Alonso possesses something few other managers can offer: a specific squad number that has become available.
Before the new Premier League campaign kicked off, Joao Pedro surrendered the number 20 shirt, opting instead for the number nine previously worn by Liam Delap. The 23-year-old forward, whom Chelsea signed from Ipswich Town for £30m just twelve months ago, chose number 12, thereby vacating the number 20.
Should Chelsea require leverage in talks to secure Wharton, offering him his familiar shirt number could provide that advantage, as few other clubs could make such an offer. The England international has worn the number 20 since arriving at Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in February 2024, with an initial price tag of £18m.
Wharton has made the number distinctly his own during his time at the club, contributing to Palace’s victories in the FA Cup, Conference League, and Community Shield. The number 20 at Chelsea has historically brought success, with Pedro and Cole Palmer both producing their finest campaigns while wearing it, and it now awaits a new owner.
Earlier this summer, former Chelsea player Andy Townsend suggested Wharton could develop into the next Michael Carrick under Alonso’s guidance.
Speaking about the potential signing, Townsend mentioned he could envision a partnership between Caicedo and Wharton forming the foundation of Chelsea’s future. He expressed confidence that whichever formation Alonso prefers, whether 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-3, this combination could prove highly effective.
Townsend described Wharton as an exceptionally refined player, drawing parallels to Carrick’s style at Manchester United. He noted how Carrick appeared to have endless time on the ball despite not being the fastest player, yet opponents rarely managed to pressure him effectively. Townsend sees similar qualities in Wharton, observing that whenever he watches the player, he always seems to have his next pass prepared.
He emphasized that Wharton demonstrates immediate awareness upon receiving possession, knowing exactly what he intends to do. Following Palace’s recent achievements, Townsend believes moving to Chelsea would represent a logical next step for the player. He sees real potential in combining Wharton’s left foot with Caicedo’s abilities at the London club, describing Wharton as a player of genuine talent.
Townsend highlighted that amidst an era of physically dominant players, it is refreshing to witness someone possessing that attribute while also displaying elegant qualities in their game. He concluded by reaffirming that Wharton embodies both aspects, and reiterated his belief that the closest comparable player would be Michael Carrick, with their playing styles being remarkably similar. He expressed confidence that Wharton would be well-suited to Chelsea’s needs.