Man City target Crystal Palace star to kick-start their squad rebuild in January

Crystal Palace are not planning to sell Adam Wharton in January due to growing interest in the England midfielder.

Manchester City are among the Premier League clubs keeping a close eye on Wharton's situation ahead of the winter transfer window.

The 20-year-old's season was plagued by a groin injury that ultimately required surgery, meaning he won't return until Palace's match against Brighton on December 15 at the earliest.

Nevertheless, Wharton is attracting England's top sides, who are willing to test Palace's resolve to keep the midfielder at the turn of the year.

But Palace are determined to keep Wharton at Selhurst Park until at least the summer.

It remains to be seen whether an offer exceeding the club's valuation of Wharton would change their position, but Palace will go into January determined to retain their best players as they try to get out of relegation danger.

But even if Wharton stays in January, the Eagles know they will face a battle to stay ahead of their midfielder next season, with a host of top clubs circling the ball-playing midfielder.

Palace plan to be active in terms of incoming players in the January window, with a left defender and attacking midfielder at the top of their shopping list.

Financial resources are likely to be limited, but there could still be a cash injection if co-owner John Textor can compete with the protracted sale of his 45 percent stake in the club.

Investment vehicle Sportsbank, advised by football financier Keith Harris, is hoping to close a deal for Textor's shares and is prepared to pump money into the club to boost its January transfer plans.