Man Utd ‘join Liverpool and Chelsea’ in Joao Palhinha transfer race

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea are all interested in acquiring the services of Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer, according to reports in the player’s homeland of Portugal. The combative 27-year-old has enjoyed an excellent season in the middle of the park at Craven Cottage and it appears his performances have left a lasting impression on some of the Premier League’s Big Six.

Fulham paid around £20million to complete the signing of the Portugal international last summer from Sporting CP and it proved to be a masterstroke for Marco Silva.

Palhinha has been among the best midfielders in the top-flight this season and is now also recognised as one of the best imports from last summer’s transfer window.

However, it appears Fulham could now be facing a fight to retain Palhinha for the 2023/24 campaign as interest from further afield begins to intensify.

Record in Portugal say United, Liverpool and Chelsea are all weighing up a summer deal, meaning Fulham could be braced for offers when the market reopens.

Don’t miss…
Man Utd have shot themselves in foot after ignoring Valencia advice [LATEST]

The report also adds that Sporting will be entitled to 10 per cent profit should Fulham cash in due to a clause inserted into his contract at Craven Cottage.

It means if Fulham are somehow seduced into a sale, they will be demanding a premium to maximise their profits, although Palhinha is tied down to a long-term contract in west London.

The former Sporting man has made a reputation for himself via his crunching challenges and brilliant long-range strikes.

Although he has already picked up 10 cautions this season in the Premier League – earning a two-match ban – he has been at the heartbeat of Fulham’s impressive season.

Don’t miss…
Tottenham and Liverpool handed Luka Modric transfer advice by Redknapp [LATEST]
Man Utd have shot themselves in foot after ignoring Valencia advice [COMMENT]
Jamie O’Hara pinpoints three matches where Arsenal ‘will lose title’ [REACTION]

Palhinha has netted four times for the Whites in all competitions, the latest of which came in the 2-0 FA Cup triumph over Leeds when he curled the ball into the top corner from distance.

He was also on target during a 3-2 west London derby victory over Brentford earlier in the season before netting in Fulham’s 2-1 win over Southampton on New Year’s Eve.

United are seemingly in the market for a partner in crime for Casemiro as they seek to sign an upgrade of Fred and Scott McTominay.

Erik ten Hag is yet to decide whether he will be landing Marcel Sabitzer permanently after striking a January loan deal with RB Leipzig.

Liverpool are also in the market for central midfielders and top target Jude Bellingham is unlikely to come cheap, meaning Jurgen Klopp could be forced to explore alternative targets.

Chelsea could prove to be a real threat for both United and Liverpool in the market as Todd Boehly seeks to continue spending heavily.

Jorginho will need to be replaced in the summer window while Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante are yet to agree to new contracts.

It means the Blues could also be in the hunt for midfield reinforcements which could disrupt Manchester United and Liverpool’s transfer ambitions.

Source: Read Full Article