According to a report by German outlet BILD, Fulham and West Ham United are keen on signing Joao Palhinha in the summer transfer window. However, the Portuguese international is eager to succeed at Bayern Munich and does not want to depart from the Allianz Arena anytime soon. The Bavarian club’s sporting director, Christoph Freund, recently suggested Die Roten would not sell the player this summer.
Joao Palhinha has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Bayern Munich from Fulham in a deal worth €49.5 million last summer. The former Sporting CP midfielder was one of the best players in the Premier League when he arrived at the Allianz Arena. However, he has struggled to stamp his authority at the Bavarian club this season.
The 29-year-old has not even completed 1,000 minutes of game time across 22 appearances in all competitions, with starts coming at a premium. However, Palhinha’s stock in the market remains high, with several well-known clubs across Europe setting their sights on him.
Premier League outfits, in particular, are keen on signing the Portuguese international, with Fulham and West Ham United vying for his signature heading into the summer transfer window. However, convincing Palhinha to leave Bayern Munich will be a tall order, as he wants to succeed at the Bundesliga club.
Fulham’s interest in Joao Palhinha is understandable. The Cottagers combing the market for a midfielder heading into the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding Andreas Pereira’s long-term future. So, the Bayern Munich midfielder is a viable target for Fulham.
As for West Ham United, James Ward-Prowse and Guido Rodriguez face an uncertain future at the East London club. In addition, the Hammers will not seal a permanent deal for Carlos Soler after his loan deal expires. So, Palhinha is an option worth considering for West Ham.
Recent reports have claimed that the 29-year-old Portuguese international might be open to returning to the Premier League. However, with BILD refuting that notion, Fulham and West Ham must look elsewhere to bolster their midfield units in the summer transfer window.
