Transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano claims that Manchester United may decide to pursue signing Joao Palhinha, a star player for Fulham, in January.
In the summer window, the Red Devils made Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat acquisitions as part of their priority to fortify their engine room.
According to recent reports, United had originally considered Palhinha as their top target, but Erik ten Hag’s team was forced to consider other choices due to the Cottagers’ high valuation, which is why they ultimately chose to sign Amrabat on a loan agreement.
However, according to Romano’s article on Caught Offside, Man Utd is still interested in Palhinha and may take formal steps to recruit him in January.
The writer asserts that Palhinha won’t be easy for Man Utd to acquire, though, because Bayern Munich is also eager to sign him during the winter transfer window.
Man United vs. Palhinha
Romano composed:
“I am aware that Palhinha may have interest from Manchester United when the transfer window reopens in January. Bayern will probably make another run at Palhinha.
The Portuguese player was on the verge of signing with the Bavarian club on deadline day this summer, having already finished the medical. However, time ran out, and Bayern Munich was unable to get his signature before the window closed. Palhinha has indeed rejoined Fulham, where he will play through at least January.
Following his summertime move to Fulham, the 28-year-old displayed his skill in the Premier League this past season. He would therefore be a huge coup for United if they could sign him.
Palhinha’s current contract, though, is still valid for four more years. Because of this, Marco Silva’s team is well-positioned to demand a high price if they are forced to sell him in January. It has been previously stated that they are looking for a sum of about £90 million.
So, in order to sign him, Man Utd will need to spend a lot of money. The Red Devils, though, apparently cannot afford to spend heavily on any fresh recruits because of FFP laws after spending more than £150 million this summer.
The likelihood that Man Utd will be able to entice the Portugal international to Old Trafford during the next transfer window is therefore quite low. It would be interesting to see, though, if Ten Hag’s team decides to formally express their interest in signing him in order to strengthen their midfield.
