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The Rise of Wharton: How the Eagles Midfielder Attracted the Attention of Top Clubs.

Adam Wharton's meteoric climb from Blackburn Rovers academy graduate to Crystal Palace's midfield dynamo has become one of English football's most gripping stories. Wharton, 21, has already won the FA Cup and played a key role in an Eagles team that is rewriting the club's history. His mix of technical proficiency, vision, and mental maturity has drew the notice of Europe's elite, establishing him as one of the continent's most sought-after young talents. This blog delves into Wharton's rise to prominence, the characteristics that have contributed to his success, his tactical role, and why he has become a target for the world's biggest clubs. ​ Foundations: Blackburn Roots and Early Breakthrough Adam James Wharton’s footballing journey started at Blackburn Rovers, where he joined the academy at just six years old. Growing up supporting the club, Wharton rapidly ascended their youth ranks, making his professional debut in an EFL Cup match at 18. His c...

Manchester United and Chelsea are tracking a Bundesliga defender, according to a report.


Castello Lukeba, an RB Leipzig defender, is said to have piqued the interest of both Manchester United and Chelsea after a good season in the Bundesliga.

Leipzig paid a high price for Lukeba, reportedly €34 million (£29 million), when he transferred from Lyon last summer. However, the German side has frequently functioned as a stepping stone for players who aspire to play at the highest level, and it is not uncommon for young talents to move on fast.

According to FootMercato, Manchester United has been studying the 21-year-old for "several weeks," while Chelsea has recently expressed interest.

Both clubs could say goodbye to at least one senior centre-back this summer, with Manchester United yet to exercise an extension option on Raphael Varane's expiring contract and 39-year-old Thiago Silva expected to depart Chelsea and return to club football in Brazil before retiring.

Leipzig are thought to have no plans to sell Lukeba this summer. However, his contract has a €70 million (£60 million) release clause that will take effect in 2025.

Lukeba has started 20 Bundesliga games in 2023/24, including all of Leipzig's last seven, during an unbeaten streak that has seen the team capture 19 points from a possible 21 to return to the top four and qualify for the Champions League.

The defender also started seven of Leipzig's eight Champions League games this season, including home and away in the group stage against Manchester City, as well as the second leg of the last-16 tie against Real Madrid, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Lukeba has already made one senior appearance for France, coming off the bench in the final minutes of a friendly against Scotland last October. A more permanent spot is more likely to arrive after Euro 2024 than before, but he will be on display at the Olympics on home soil this summer, having been part of Thierry Henry's Under-23 squad last month.

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