Manchester United also sees Wharton as a potential signing, particularly as an alternative to Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. Crystal Palace is likely to be reluctant to sell Wharton, but may consider an offer of £70m. New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso is a fan of Wharton and believes he can develop into a replacement for Luka Modric, who recently joined AC Milan.

Real Madrid is prepared to wait a year for Wharton, but will act quickly if Manchester United makes a serious attempt to sign him.