Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha is understood to have been ‘keen’ on a move to Manchester United on deadline day, before the club’s capture of Sofyan Amrabat.
Palhinha came close to leaving the Cottagers in the closing stages of the transfer window with Bayern Munich having agreed a fee to sign the Portugal international, but a deadline deal collapsed as Fulham failed to secure a replacement in time.
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The Daily Express are reporting that Bayern were not the only club to have considered Palhinha however, with the 28-year-old having been on Manchester United’s radar.
Erik ten Hag had been impressed with Palhinha’s performances at Fulham last season, with the defensive midfielder leading the Premier League for duels won and tackles after his arrival from Sporting Lisbon.
United had considered a potential move, but the club’s failure to offload Scott McTominay prevented a deal being pursued, despite reported interest from Palhinha in moving to Old Trafford. The Red Devils instead signed Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina, on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.
Palhinha’s brother and agent, Goncalo, has insisted that the midfielder’s move to Bayern is not over and hinted the transfer could be revisited in January.
“They didn’t kill the dream, they just postponed it,” he said. “Very proud of my brother and the player I represent. Words of appreciation, recognition and thanks to the entire Bayern structure. The affection for the club in our family will remain forever even though my brother didn’t sign.”
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