Fulham are plotting a January raid for Marseille midfielder Papa Gueye, as Marco Silva could seek an immediate Joao Palhinha replacement.
According to Football Insider, Fulham have set sights on Marseille star Pap Gueye as a potential replacement for Joao Palhinha. The 24-year-old midfielder could become available despite the French side extending his deal.
Fulham could enter the January window looking for a midfielder as Portuguese star Joao Palhinha’s future has come in for some doubts. The 28-year-old came close to leaving Craven Cottage in the summer. Despite signing a new deal, he could depart the club amid interest from elsewhere.
Arsenal are the latest to enter the race for Palhinha, with Bayern Munich also considering rekindling their interest. Liverpool are also known admirers, while others might become a part of the conversation once Fulham names their asking price.
Selling Palhinha does leave Marco Silva with problems ahead of the second part of the season. The Portuguese international remains an integral part of Fulham. The manager would like to keep him; things are outside his hands.
Fulham have considered some options in the market as they retain an interest in Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Scott McTominay. The chances of signing either are slim in January. Their sides, Tottenham and Manchester United will look to keep those midfielders.
Brazilian star Andre remains a target, and Fulham is now considered a favourite to land him from Palmeiras. Marseille’s Papa Gueye became the latest name to emerge on their shortlist. The French giants recently signalled their intent to sell him in January.
Gueye represents a good player who received a ban following a transfer saga. The 24-year-old midfield powerhouse has since returned and continues to perform reasonably. He also has vast experience in the game, having played over 100 games for Marseille.
Marseille did trigger a contract option to extend his stay until 2025. They have given FIFA agent Willie McKay the mandate to sell the midfielder. Transfermarkt values him at €10 million, but Marseille would want more than that in the current market.
They are keen on raising funds to strengthen their squad and view the 24-year-old midfielder as a dispensable asset. Fulham will have their attention, with the Cottagers only likely to move if Palhinha departs.
For now, other English clubs are also in the mix, as Silva would want a quick resolution on his Portuguese star’s future and then plan to find a replacement.
