The Gunners are poised to sign a marquee striker, but they could also pursue a defensive midfielder with a couple of departures anticipated.
Jorginho and Thomas Partey have their contracts expiring on June 30. Both will likely walk away on free transfers at the end of the season.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel, former England star Owen Hargreaves said that the Gunners should look at Crystal Palace ace Adam Wharton as Partey’s successor.
The 44-year-old added that Wharton has a crazy vision and he is two steps ahead. The former midfielder believes his touch is almost as good as anyone in the game.
He said (via Metro): “Someone I like is Adam Wharton. He gets in your team [Arsenal].‘If Mikel Arteta saw him he’d go, “that’s my guy”. Say if Thomas Partey leaves, Wharton is a player.
“The thing with Adam that’s crazy is his vision. He’s two steps ahead. His reading of the game when you watch him. His vision and his touch is almost as good as anyone.”
Wharton would be an intelligent signing
The 21-year-old joined Palace from Blackburn Rovers in early 2024. He has made a huge impression and has already represented England at the senior level.
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Wharton had a mixed start to the campaign after a heavy workload for club and country. He picked up a groin injury during the first half of the league season.
However, he has looked a different player since his comeback. Wharton does not like to engage in regular duels but has excelled with other key attributes.
He has impressed with his ball control from the centre of the park as well as recoveries. Wharton completed 100 percent of his passes against Manchester City earlier this month.
Partey, who was signed for £45 million from Atletico Madrid in 2020, looks poised to leave on a free transfer. Arsenal have opted against extending his contract.
Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi has been tipped to succeed Partey for some time, but he could make a surprise move to Real Madrid instead during the summer.
We won’t be surprised if Arsenal turn their attention to Wharton, who will cost a premium fee of £70m.
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