Last summer, the transfer of six-man Joao Palhinha to FC Bayern fell through at the last second. Now interest in the Portuguese has been rekindled
Research confirms reports from Portugal and Sky that the German record champions have once again put out feelers for Joao Palhinha. The six-man still plays for Fulham FC after a transfer to FC Bayern fell through on the last day of the 2023 summer transfer window.
As a reminder: At the time, coach Thomas Tuchel wanted a “holding six” and Palhinha ended up being the one. The 28-year-old flew to Munich, completed the medical check on site and waited to sign the prepared contract. However, because his employers Fulham were unable to find a suitable replacement in the short time available, he had to return to London in the evening without having achieved anything
Now it could work out at the second attempt. Apparently, new Bayern coach Vincent Kompany is also convinced by the six-man, who is in Portugal’s European Championship squad. Those responsible at FC Bayern see Palhinha as a player whose profile they don’t have in the squad and who would be good for it. A six-man with strengths in winning the ball and tackling
Probably cheaper than last year – what will happen with Kimmich and Goretzka?
The sticking point this time is likely to be the transfer fee. After the transfer failed at the first attempt, Palhinha extended his contract at Fulham until 2028. Last August, Munich would have paid around €60 million for the player, but he should now be available for less. Will Fulham play along and agree to a transfer fee in the region of €40 million?
If Palhinha comes, it will be tight for others in Bayern’s midfield. Aleksandar Pavlovic (20) is the future, Konrad Laimer (27) is valued for his versatility and as a team player. Injury-prone Raphael Guerreiro (30) can also play in midfield alongside left-back. This means that Leon Goretzka (29) in particular is likely to have a difficult time in the future squad. Joshua Kimmich (29) is also considered a candidate for sale, as his contract expires in 2025. However, in both cases, the players have the final say as to whether their contract is valid
