Bayern determined to sign Palhinha despite new Fulham contract

Bayern Munich are continuing their pursuit of Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha despite his recent commitment to Fulham. 

According to reports from Sky Sports, the Bundesliga giants are resolute in their aim to secure Palhinha’s services during the upcoming January transfer window.

Palhinha, who came agonisingly close to joining Bayern Munich on the summer transfer deadline day for a reported £56 million, was even seen travelling to Munich in anticipation of the move. 

However, the transfer fell through due to Fulham’s inability to secure a suitable replacement in time.

Palhinha recently penned a new five-year contract with Fulham earlier this month. This fresh contract does not have a release clause, demonstrating the midfielder’s commitment to the London club. 

Nevertheless, Bayern remain undeterred in their pursuit of the 28-year-old midfield enforcer.

According to the report, Bayern Munich are closely monitoring Palhinha’s performances for Fulham. The German club will renew their efforts to sign him once the transfer window reopens on January 1.

With over three months remaining until the transfer window opens, Fulham now have ample time to identify and secure Palhinha’s replacement. 

Sources suggest that Manchester United’s Scott McTominay ranks highly on Fulham’s list of potential replacements.

McTominay had expressed reluctance to leave Old Trafford during the summer transfer window. 

However, the arrival of Sofyan Amrabat on an initial loan from Fiorentina appears to have altered the landscape, potentially making McTominay more open to a club switch in 2024.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Pierre Emile-Hojbjerg was another notable target for Fulham as the summer transfer window drew to a close. 

However, the Danish midfielder reportedly had reservations about moving to Craven Cottage, believing that more prominent opportunities may await him if he decides to leave Spurs soon.

All eyes will be on Bayern’s continued pursuit of Palhinha ahead of January and Fulham’s endeavours to secure a suitable replacement.