Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United are looking to challenge Bayern Munich for João Palhinha.
Manchester United are looking to challenge Bayern Munich for the signature of João Palhinha, according to Bild.
The Portuguese midfielder was close to joining Munich during the summer. However, the deal worth €65 million fell through as Fulham were unable to find a suitable replacement before the transfer deadline.
Munich are still the favourites to land Palhinha in the January transfer window as the report suggests. Die Roten manager Thomas Tuchel is still keen on landing his primary target for the defensive midfield role.
Palhinha has appeared in 43 games for Fulham so far while scoring five goals across all competitions. The Portuguese international played a pivotal role during Fulham’s 2022-23 campaign.
The 28-year-old defensive midfielder is well known for his great interception and tackling abilities. Palhinha’s height gives him a major advantage in aerial duels and makes him a force to be reckoned with in the middle of the park.
United had a poor start to the current season. They have lost two of their first four matches so far and find themselves in 11th position. The Red Devils showed vulnerability in midfield. Their primary defensive midfielder, Casemiro, has struggled with form since the second half of last season.
United have signed Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina on a season-long loan. The Red Devils hope that he will provide energy and security from midfield which they have lacked. Palhinha would be an incredible signing for the club if they decide to go for him. The Portuguese is in the peak years of his career as well.
Palhinha’s future remains uncertain with respect to where he will be playing after the next transfer window. The Portuguese defensive midfielder will be a marquee signing for any big club.
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If Palhinha comes to United, he will generate a huge buzz around Old Trafford. Fans would surely love a reliable defensive midfielder who can secure the backline from most of the threats the Premier League can muster.
