BAYERN MUNICH are ready to move for Crystal Palace’s shining star Adam Wharton – and try to get him at the second attempt.
The German giants are desperate for the midfield maestro, 20, after missing out when the Eagles swooped on Blackburn for him in January.
Harry Kane’s Bayern worked on a deal to sign Wharton and take 18 months to develop him but Palace saw them off – and Chelsea, who also had a similar plan.
Wharton cost Palace £18million but it would now take £60m to get him – an expensive mistake for Bayern.
Experts think he will play in the Champions League sooner rather than later and Palace could come under pressure to keep him.
The Eagles have a host of talent and the likes of Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze are linked with moves.
But boyhood Blackburn fan Wharton may attract a bid quicker – helped by a brilliant display in last Monday’s 4-0 thumping of Manchester United and an assist in Saturday’s 3-1 win at Wolves.
Palace are under siege off the field too, with director of football Dougie Freedman wanted by Newcastle.
He masterminded deals for all of the Palace captures and is happy at the club.
However, if they sell too many in the next window, it could lead to a change of heart.
Meanwhile Bayern are also looking at Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, 22, but would have to find £50m to land him.
Palace centre-back Kofi Balmer, 23, is set to sign for St Mirren in a £75,000 deal.
The former Northern Ireland Under-21 ace has been on loan at AFC Wimbledon but could now head for Scotland.
Saints’ boss Stephen Robinson thinks he would be a landmark capture. – Sun.