West Ham United are preparing their initial approach for Joao Palhinha, with the Fulham midfielder an option to replace Declan Rice.
Fabrizio Romano insists West Ham United are ready to formally approach Fulham for Joao Palhinha. The Hammers seek a high-profile replacement for Declan Rice, who will leave the club. They also have the names such as Edson Alvarez on the list, among others.
West Ham United does not want to waste any time securing a proper replacement for Declan Rice. The England international seems poised to leave the club after he returns from international duty. Arsenal are the current favorites to land the 24-year-old.
The Gunners are advancing in negotiations and are reportedly poised to make a £100 million bid to tempt the Hammers. The London side are keen to bring in a top-quality replacement early, with Joao Palhinha their priority target.
The Fulham midfielder has been a revelation since moving from Sporting CP last season. His performances had already caught the attention of some of the top clubs, including Liverpool. Yet, none have made any concrete approaches so far.
West Ham are preparing their first approach for João Palhinha. Not an easy deal with Fulham but he's top of the list for West Ham to replace Declan Rice. 🚨⚒️ #WHUFC
Edson Alvarez remains in list but Borussia Dortmund are pushing to agree personal terms after proposal sent. pic.twitter.com/IANa4xL310
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 18, 2023
West Ham are now preparing to open talks with Fulham to understand the conditions for signing Joao Palhinha. They have been keeping tabs on the midfielder since the start of the month but were waiting to understand at what price Rice might sell for.
With the Hammers set to receive a considerable fee for Rice, it’s safe to assume they will have the funds to make a big splash. Fulham reportedly want between £50-60 million for the 27-year-old Premier League star, but the Hammers would want a lower fee in return.
In hindsight, Fulham might consider the Hammers a direct rival in the league. They will want to extract the best price before selling a key player directly. West Ham are also interested in Edson Alvarez, but the Mexican seems poised to join Borussia Dortmund instead.
With Palhinha, the Hammers see a player with immense know-how of the Premier League. He could slot straight into their first-team plans. Despite the high fee, there are merits to signing the 27-year-old to strengthen their midfield in this window.
