Marco Silva has identified Youssef Fofana as a viable replacement for Bayern Munich-linked Joa Palhinha ahead of a deadline-day move.
According to Football Insider, Youssef Fofana emerged on Fulham’s list of potential replacements for Joao Palhinha. The 24-year-old Frenchman has a year left on his Monaco deal, which could make things easier for the Cottagers to pull this off before the window shuts.
There’s plenty of action on the transfer deadline day, as Fulham could play a pivotal role in some crucial movements. The Cottagers seemed settled heading into the final part of the window, but late interest from Bayern Munich in Joao Palhinha has somewhat rattled their plans.
Thomas Tuchel will want midfield reinforcements after Liverpool moved for Ryan Gravenberch on Thursday. The Reds are on the verge of signing the Dutchman permanently, and Bayern have identified Palhinha as the ideal replacement.
The move will prove complicated as Fulham had previously quoted a massive asking price for the Portuguese midfielder. Palhinha has told the Cottagers he would like to move on, and if they can find a suitable replacement in time, they will allow the transfer to go through.
Youssef Fofana, previously linked with West Ham, emerges as a viable target for Marco Silva. Losing Palhinha will come as a blow for the Portuguese manager, but signing someone like the 24-year-old Frenchman will offset the massive loss. If Fulham are to make a good profit on their investment in the 28-year-old, the board will welcome a move.
Fofana had been linked with many moves to the Premier League throughout the summer. The Hammers looked at him as a replacement for Declan Rice but seemingly settled for Edson Alvarez later. Now, Fulham could open the doors to the Premier League for the 24-year-old Frenchman, and a move might happen.
Fofana has a year left on his deal with Monaco, and the French giants might cash in if the right offer comes in. They may have demanded around €30-35 million earlier, but that price tag could drop on the final day of the window.
Fofana will improve this Fulham side and bring similar qualities to that of Palhinha from a defensive standpoint. He’s also a better-holding midfielder in the contest of controlling the game’s tempo, something Palhinha lacked.
All eyes will be on Fulham and this race for Fofana, as some other clubs could also contest for the 24-year-old Frenchman. For now, the Cottagers may have the opportunity to close the deal with Monaco and allow Bayern to start finalising the transfer of Palhinha.
