Aheed Abrar
West Ham United want Manchester United target and Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha as Declan Rice replacement
Manchester United target and Fulham star Joao Palhinha is being eyed by West Ham United as a replacement for Declan Rice, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano on Twitter (h/t The Sun).
The England international looks set to part ways with the Hammers in the ongoing transfer window. Premier League rivals Arsenal are closing in on a deal for the 24-year-old. Their skipper has been pivotal to David Moyes’ team’s success in the last few years.
To that end, the London Stadium side have identified the Cottagers’ Portuguese midfielder as their top target. However, the Red Devils, as well as Liverpool, also have the 27-year-old on their radar.
Fulham signed Palhinha in the summer of 2022 from Sporting CP. His current contract at the Craven Cottage side runs until June 2027. As a result, Marco Silva’s team are looking for £50 million to part ways with the defensive midfielder.
The Portugal international impressed many during his debut season at the Cottagers. For the West London-based club, the 27-year-old made 40 appearances in the previous campaign, scoring four goals.
However, it is Palhinha’s ability to break down opposition attacks, which was on display against Man United in both PL fixtures, which is impressive.
But the Red Devils already have their own world-class enforcer in Casemiro. He has been a key player for us under Erik ten Hag. The Brazil international has brought much-needed quality to our engine room.
Unfortunately, the Old Trafford side seemingly lack depth in the middle of the park. Scott McTominay and Fred leave a lot to be desired when playing in the number six position.
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Therefore, if we have plans to challenge for major titles, then adding quality to our bench is going to be key. However, it will be interesting to see whether the Manchester-based club will pursue Palhinha and hinder West Ham’s chances of getting him.
