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João Palhinha’s move to Bayern Munich collapses at final stages

By Isha Mohan

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 29: Joao Palhinha of Fulham is seen prior to the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage on August 29, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 29: Joao Palhinha of Fulham is seen prior to the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage on August 29, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) /
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João Palhinha
Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha thought a deal was in place for a move to the reigning Bundesliga champions. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images) /

Palhinha stuck in Fulham as move to Bayern Munich falls apart

João Palhinha had received clear indications that Fulham had successfully concluded all the necessary negotiations with Bayern Munich.

The commitment to this deal seemed strong enough for the player to fly out to Munich, where he reportedly underwent two rounds of medicals. During his trip, he was seen with a Bayern Munich shirt while carrying out some media duties.

Valued at an impressive £61.7 million, the Portuguese midfielder was particularly eager to demonstrate his valuable experience in the Champions League.

While Fulham manager Marco Silva initially showed reluctance to part ways with the influential player, his stance became even more challenging following the departure of striker Aleksandar Mitrovic to the Saudi side, Al Hilal.

However, with Fulham abruptly backing out of the deal, Silva can now expect to keep the player for an additional four months.

This unexpected twist was a direct result of the club’s inability to secure a replacement in a timely manner. Scott McTominay, the player they shortlisted to replace Palhinha, couldn’t seem to come to terms with the club for a deal, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Other targets for the club to replace the Portuguese midfielder included Pierre-Emile Højbjerg from Tottenham and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester.

Next. Callum Hudson-Odoi joins Nottingham Forest on permanent deal. dark

With the deal collapsing, concerns arose that the transfer of Ryan Gravenberch to Liverpool might also be impacted. However, multiple sources, including Fabrizio Romano, have confirmed there is no connection between the two situations. Consequently, Gravenberch remains on track to become a Liverpool player by the end of the day. In addition, Fulham is actively pursuing the signing of Alex Iwobi from Everton before the transfer window closes.

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