Sources: Chelsea “engaged” in contacts to sign highly-rated 22-year-old midfielder

What was once expected to be a fierce bidding war has instead slowed dramatically. High financial demands and shifting priorities across top clubs have reduced momentum around Wharton’s future. Palace appears increasingly likely to retain him, though financial pressures and potential developments later in the window mean the situation is not fully closed.

The 22-year-old is one of the finest young talents in the Premier League right now, but Crystal Palace will have to be reasonable with their demands in order for any move to go through.