Arsenal tracking Joao Palhinha

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December 5, 2023 06:15 GMT (UK), by Ketan Patel

As Bayern Munich’s hopes of signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha appears to have cooled, the Cottagers’ Premier League rivals Arsenal have been credited with an interest in the Portuguese international central midfielder, seen as a long-term replacement for Granit Xhaka. Joao Palhinha scored the equaliser at the Emirates Stadium earlier this season that saw Fulham earn a well-deserved point.

The former Sporting Lisbon midfielder arrived at Fulham in 2022, and has so far played 46 Premier League games with a decent five goal haul. However, it is his hard work in midfield and creativity that has caught the eye of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta and Director of Football, Edu. The duo see Palhinha as a perfect signing next summer, but will even consider a January move for the 6 foot 3 defensive midfielder.

Seen as a late developer, Palhinha spent time playing on loan at the likes of Belenenses, Braga and Moreirense before forcing his way into Sporting’s starting XI. Portugal only gave him his first cap in 2021, by which point the player was already 26-years-old. However, it is undeniable that the player has Premier League calibre and numerous teams have presented an interest in signing him.

It is now reported though that Arsenal are in pole position to secure a move for Palhinha, and will offer an estimated £60 million in the January transfer window, but are equally happy to wait until next summer should the Craven Cottage outfit decide against a move midway through the Premier League season.