Fabrizio Romano insists Arsenal are not confident about signing Joao Palhinha after the Fulham midfielder emerged as a target.
According to Fabrizio Romano via Caught Offside, Arsenal are not overly confident about signing Joao Palhinha, with the money involved taking centre stage. The Italian journalist claimed the 28-year-old Premier League star could become an expensive acquisition, which may make the Gunners question this transfer idea.
Arsenal are sitting on top of the Premier League table, courtesy of a late win over Luton Town on Tuesday, with Declan Rice scoring a 97th-minute winner. The Gunners will take on Aston Villa at the weekend, which makes it a mouthwatering clash after Unai Emery’s side beat Manchester City and climb into third place.
Mikel Arteta would want his side to maintain their momentum and remain there until January. Around then, Arsenal will have the chance to shore up their squad and bring players to help them push in the title challenge.
Reports have suggested that Arsenal will prioritise a new defensive midfielder in January. Douglas Luiz and Martin Zubimendi feature on a three-man shortlist, with the former their priority target if they can find a way to convince Aston Villa.
There are difficulties in sealing a move for the Brazilian and complexities around Zubimendi as he has a significant release clause. Hence, in recent reports, links to Joao Palhinha emerged, with the Fulham midfielder keen on a bigger challenge to further his career.
Bayern Munich came close to signing him, and they might return with another offer in January. However, Arsenal’s interest could develop in the coming weeks, which could see the 28-year-old Premier League star think about his options ahead.
Fabrizio Romano has now suggested the Gunners are not confident about Palhinha, as they have doubts over the investment in the 28-year-old Premier League star. Fulham will demand a significant fee for the Portuguese international, as Arsenal have not invested heavily in a player in that age group, barring Leandro Trossard, who probably cost half of what Palhinha might.
Romano said, “Joao Palhinha – Bayern remain interested in Joao, but yes, there are also UK clubs in the race now, it’s true.
“He’s very expensive and that’s why clubs like Arsenal believe the investment is not easy at all for the January window, but things will happen around João, for sure.”
Arsenal will continue to assess their options ahead of the January window. If Arteta and Edu Gaspar feel that Palhinha will help them win titles, they might put the money on the table for Fulham to consider. The Cottagers are in a strong position after agreeing a new deal after Palhinha’s failed move to Bayern Munich.
