Manchester City rebuffed in Adam Wharton enquiry as Crystal Palace refuse summer sale

Manchester City have made an enquiry to Crystal Palace over a potential move for Adam Wharton, but the Eagles have firmly rejected the possibility of selling the midfielder before the transfer deadline.

According to David Ornstein, the 22-year-old England international is among the midfielders on City's recruitment list as Enzo Maresca looks to strengthen his squad following Rodri's move to Barcelona.

Palace, however, have made their position clear: Wharton is not available this summer.

City's approach has not developed into formal negotiations after Palace immediately indicated they have no intention of sanctioning Wharton's departure.

The midfielder remains highly regarded at the Etihad and is among several candidates being assessed as City reshape their midfield under Maresca.

Rodri's departure to Barcelona has created a major vacancy in the centre of the pitch, with City now looking for players capable of helping replace the influence of the Spanish international.

Wharton's ability in possession and experience in the Premier League make him an obvious candidate.

However, Palace's refusal to negotiate means City would need a dramatic change in circumstances for a transfer to become realistic before the window closes.

Palace's stance represents a significant obstacle for City.

Rather than inviting negotiations by setting a huge asking price, the Eagles have simply communicated that the 22-year-old is not for sale this summer.

That leaves City with little room to manoeuvre unless they decide to test Palace's resolve with a major formal offer.

Wharton's status as an England international and an important member of the Palace midfield also means replacing him this late in the window would be extremely difficult.

With the deadline approaching, Palace have no desire to create another major hole in their squad.

Wharton is not City's only midfield target.

The club are also closing in on highly-rated Ayyoub Bouaddi, giving Maresca another potential addition as he rebuilds the midfield following Rodri's departure.

Bouaddi would represent more of a long-term investment, while Wharton already possesses significant Premier League experience.

City's interest in both players suggests they are exploring different profiles rather than relying on one direct replacement for Rodri.

For now, though, their Wharton pursuit appears to have reached an immediate roadblock.

Manchester City must decide whether to test Palace's position with a formal offer or focus their attention elsewhere.

With Palace showing no intention of negotiating and the deadline approaching, Bouaddi currently appears the more realistic deal to progress.

Wharton may remain on City's radar beyond this summer, but convincing Palace to change their stance in the final days of the window looks extremely difficult.

Should Manchester City test Crystal Palace with a major bid for Adam Wharton, or focus entirely on completing the Ayyoub Bouaddi deal? Have your say.