Bayern Munich is still keen on luring Joao Palhinha to the Allianz Arena. Despite a late summer transfer move not going through (via Bild).
The Portuguese midfielder was close to joining Bayern Munich in the summer transfer window. However, Fulham pulled the plug in the last minute. They failed to identify and sign a replacement for the outgoing midfielder.
The clubs agreed on a transfer fee of €65m (£56m), and the player went through a medical. But a last-minute position change from Fulham led to the collapse of the deal.
Fulham’s position saw a complete turn as they offered a contract extension to the player. This would tie him to the club till 2028. The 28-year-old will have the option to extend the contract for another year.
Joao Palhinha’s new contract offers a significant pay raise. It also increases his transfer fee. This will be more than €65m (£56m) deal that they accepted from Bayern Munich on deadline day. The contract provides security to the player and the club. However, it will not deter Bayern Munich’s ambition as they are still keen on securing his signing.
The midfielder’s brother and advisor Goncalo still seems very keen for the transfer to happen. However, he wrote on Instagram shortly after it fell through that “They didn’t kill the dream, they just postponed it.”
Bayern allowed Ryan Gravenberch to leave and join Liverpool. The idea was that Joao Palinha would strengthen the midfield so a move in January cannot be ruled out.
Bayern Munich had a terrific start to their Bundesliga campaign this year. They secured three consecutive wins in their first three games. However, in their recent match against Leverkusen, the Bavarians dropped points as the match ended in a 2-2 draw.
Fulham on the other hand have endured a turbulent start to their Premier League campaign. They have managed to win just one out of their four matches. They will be keen on getting back to winning ways when they lock horns with Luton FC.
