Chelsea could seek to bolster their midfield department when the transfer window reopens at the turn of the year.
The Blues sold Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City before the transfer deadline this month, but they could not secure a suitable replacement.
A verbal deal was agreed with Monaco for Lamine Camara on deadline day, but the Ligue 1 giants pulled the plug on the move at the last hurdle.
This left Chelsea with no time to secure a marquee replacement, but they are expected to address the issue when the transfer window reopens this winter.
It is now claimed that the Blues are keeping a close eye on Palace star Wharton and could make a renewed approach at the start of 2027.
The Eagles made it clear that the Englishman was not for sale over the summer, but Chelsea remain optimistic they can convince them.
There is a belief that they could sign the young midfielder for £80m.
