Wigan Athletic are understood to be showing strong interest in Crystal Palace goalkeeper Joe Whitworth, with the 22-year-old emerging as a potential summer target as the club look to strengthen their goalkeeping department ahead of the new campaign.
Whitworth, who has been regarded as one of Palace’s most promising academy graduates in recent years, is attracting attention after a steady progression through the club’s youth ranks and into senior consideration. Although opportunities in the first team have been limited due to competition for places, his development has not gone unnoticed within the wider Football League.
At 22, the goalkeeper is now at a crucial stage of his career where regular first-team football is seen as essential for his continued growth. A move away from Selhurst Park, whether on loan or permanently, is therefore being considered as a realistic next step depending on how Palace structure their squad for the upcoming season.
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Wigan Athletic, meanwhile, are believed to be monitoring the situation closely as they aim to add depth and long-term quality to their squad. The club have been actively assessing options in the market and see Whitworth as a player with strong potential who could develop into a key figure over time.
Known for his shot-stopping ability, composure under pressure, and strong distribution, Whitworth fits the profile of modern goalkeepers increasingly favoured across English football. His grounding at Crystal Palace has also provided him with exposure to high-level training environments, further enhancing his technical and mental development.
A source close to the situation summed up the growing speculation with a brief but telling update:
“Wigan Athletic are interested in signing 22 year old Crystal Palace goalkeeper Joe Whitworth this summer ✍️ 🧤”
While discussions are still at an early stage, interest from Wigan is expected to develop as the transfer window progresses. Much will depend on Crystal Palace’s own plans, particularly whether they view Whitworth as part of their long-term first-team pathway or prefer him to gain further experience elsewhere.
For Palace, the situation reflects a broader challenge faced by Premier League clubs with strong academy systems: balancing the need to develop young talent with the pressure of maintaining depth and competition at senior level. Whitworth’s progress has been steady, but the pathway to regular Premier League minutes remains highly competitive.
From Wigan’s perspective, however, the appeal is clear. Securing a young, technically capable goalkeeper with top-flight academy experience would represent both an immediate squad addition and a longer-term investment.
As the summer window approaches, Joe Whitworth’s future is expected to be one of several decisions Crystal Palace will need to assess carefully. Whether his next step comes in the Championship or remains within the Premier League setup, his development continues to be closely followed.
For now, interest is growing, and Wigan Athletic are firmly in the picture.
