Fulham have reportedly emerged as a potential destination for Wolves target Joao Palhinha this summer.
According to Record (h/t Sport Witness), Fulham are looking to hijack Wolves’ deal to sign Joao Palhinha. The Midlands outfit have a “deal in principle” with Sporting CP over the combative Portuguese midfielder, who is keen on a move to the Premier League. While Wolves are the undisputed favourites to sign the player, Fulham’s late entry has made the deal complicated.
Wolves have a €20 million agreement with Sporting CP over Palhinha. However, the fact that Barcelona target Ruben Neves is still a Wolves player is holding up the deal, which has put Fulham on alert. The newly-promoted Premier League outfit have informed Sporting of their desire to match Wolves’ €20 million offer.
Although the offer has not arrived yet, Fulham coach Marco Silva is heavily involved in the saga. Given his vast knowledge of Portuguese football, the former Everton coach is well aware of Palhinha’s qualities as a midfielder enforcer, who is well-equipped to thrive in the Premier League.
Boasting a strong 1.90m physical frame, Palhinha is indeed a rock in the middle of the park. His aggression and ability to break up the play make the 26-year-old an ideal fit for the English brand of football. With almost 100 competitive appearances for Sporting and 14 caps for the Portuguese national team, he also brings considerable experience at the highest level.
The 26-year-old’s experience, aggression and physical attributes have made him an ideal target for Fulham. After once again gaining promotion, the Londoners are determined to remain in the Premier League this time by adding real quality to their ranks.
For a fee of just €20 million, Palhinha represents excellent value for money, and the Portuguese connection between him and Marco Silva could go a long way in revitalising Fulham’s second line of press next season.
However, Wolves remain the undisputed favourites to secure the services of the Sporting CP midfielder, who will be keen on working under Bruno Lage and other Portuguese stars in the team. The entire deal, though, hinges on the sale of Neves, who has been linked with a move to FC Barcelona.
Fulham, meanwhile, have already set their sights on other alternatives. Crystal Palace star Luka Milivojevic, for one, has emerged as a top target for Silva, while the Cottagers are also closing in on the capture of SC Braga’s holding midfielder Al Musrati.