Fulham keeping a lookout for Palhinha options as Bayern Munich remains interested

Bayern Munich is prepared to renew its interest in Fulham’s outstanding midfield player Joao Palhinha, who the team hopes to replace in January.

Palhinha was close to signing a deal with Bayern for just under £60 million in the summer and was in Munich on deadline, but Fulham was unable to find a substitute and decided to halt the move.

The Portuguese player, who was previously the best-paid player at Craven Cottage until the move fell through, has since signed a new, long-term contract there; Fulham has denied rumours that this contract has a release clause. The 28-year-old has now returned to action and is displaying exceptional form, despite the tremendous disappointment of his failed trade.

The Ball Is Square is aware that despite Fulham’s insistence that they do not wish to lose Palhinha, the midfield player is still keen on a move to Bayern. Due to this, the Cottagers are considering many midfield replacements to turn their attention to in 2024.

Fulham continues to monitor Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Tottenham and Kalvin Phillips of Manchester City, while they have also made many attempts in the last year to recruit Andre from Fluminense.

Although it is unclear which of those players would be available in January, Fulham is aware that they cannot let Palhinha depart without having a backup player in place.

Palhinha has also discussed potential January transfers and repeated his goal of moving up to a “higher” level of play.