Former Championship manager Gary Rowett has insisted that the one thing that has surprised him about Adam Wharton’s move to Crystal Palace is the kind of fee that has been involved in the move.
It was confirmed on the final day of the winter transfer window that the Eagles had managed to rope in the Blackburn Rovers teenager on a five-and-a-half-year deal.
The Premier League side have paid a fee in the region of £18m to take Wharton to Selhurst Park, a figure that is striking, according to Rowett.
Despite Wharton’s ability to affect games in the final third, Rowett believes that £18m-plus is a significant amount for him.
Now that the deal has been concluded though, it will be a huge step up for the player concerned, the 49-year-old feels.
“He’s a very good player. I managed against him a couple of times last season, and he’s so comfortable in possession of the ball”, Rowett told Sky Sports News.
“There are many different sides to his game.
“He’s added goals and an ability to affect games in the final third.
“He’s a player who will take the ball anywhere, is involved in the build-up and has plenty of potential.
“The only thing I’m slightly surprised about is that if you look at most players who leave the Championship for the Premier League, you’re talking about a fee of around £10m to £15m.
“So to get £18m-plus is a very good deal for Blackburn as well.
“It’s a huge step up so I think it’s one for the future and not straightaway for Palace.
“There’s a greater intensity, physicality and speed to how you’re closed down.
“Technically, I feel he can handle the step up.”
Wharton featured in 26 Championship matches for Blackburn this season, making five goal contributions and will now look to cement a spot in the Crystal Palace side.
