West Ham United are plotting a £40 million move for Joao Palhinha, as they could discuss a deal with Fulham despite their massive valuation.
According to talkSPORT, West Ham United are about to launch a £40 million bid for Joao Palhinha. As per the report, talks have begun with Fulham, but the Cottagers had previously held a massive valuation for the 28-year-old Portuguese international.
West Ham United are on a quest to find the right midfielder in this window. They have explored a few options, but nothing seems advanced at this stage. The Hammers had lined up a few targets over a month ago but were probably waiting for the Declan Rice transfer completion.
With their former captain now an Arsenal player, a look at what he brings to Mikel Arteta’s side will show the monumental task at West Ham to replace him. The England international offered a lot, and it could probably take two midfielders to cover for the loss.
Joao Palhinha was their early favourite to replace Rice, but Fulham demanded £90 million to sell the 28-year-old Portuguese international. Any move at that rate would not have made sense from a financial standpoint. And realistically, the midfielder should not hold that sort of value.
West Ham seemingly had looked away from a potential deal and looked at other targets, including Denis Zakaria. They might still look to bring the Swiss international if Juventus agree to their loan deal proposal.
Edson Alvarez remains a target after his move to Borussia Dortmund fell through earlier in the window. However, the Ajax midfielder will cost significantly, and West Ham could make a significant signing and another one on cheaper terms, like Zakaria.
Hence, they switched their attention towards Palhinha again. West Ham are plotting a £40 million move for the 28-year-old Portuguese international, and talks with Fulham are underway. The midfielder had attracted interest from top clubs. But so far, none have come forward with an offer.
For instance, Liverpool might still show an interest once they finalise the sale of Fabinho. But Fulham may ask for significantly more. Hence, the talks are expected to drag on as things stand, and the Cottagers could reject West Ham’s opening proposal for Palhinha.
In fact, as per Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian, Fulham have rejected an offer from West Ham for a similar amount. Talks will continue for the midfielder as things progress, but it does appear that the Hammers have narrowed down on the Portuguese star as their ideal Rice replacement.
