Barcelona are reportedly keen on signing Fulham midfielder, Joao Palhinha, following the departure of Sergio Busquets earlier this month.
Cementing himself in the Portugal national side, Palhinha has been a revelation in the club’s return to the Premier League and has caught the eye of a variety of top clubs.
Making 35 appearances in the league, the 27-year-old has been a key member of Marco Silva’s side, and secured Fulham’s highest Premier League finish since 2008.
Palhinha has reportedly attracted interest from La Liga giants, Barcelona, who are in pursuit of a holding midfielder following Sergio Busquets’ move to Inter Miami.
A move to Barcelona could be difficult as the former Sporting Lisbon midfielder signed a five-year deal when signing for Fulham last summer. Meaning his contract will run until 2027 and could potentially cost the Hammers over £50m.
Barcelona are exploring the possibility of signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha. (Sport) pic.twitter.com/sI1Ym4jX2i
— Transfer News Central (@TransferNewsCen) June 25, 2023
After clinching the La Liga title with an eleven point lead, the Catalan side have demonstrated the huge progression at the club – boasting an 11-point gap on rivals, Real Madrid.
Summer signing Robert Lewandowski, had a superb start to his Barcelona career as he ended the season as the club’s leading goalscorer – finding the back of the net 23 times.
Despite winning the league for the first time in almost five-years, Xavi’s side were underwhelming in European competitions and highlighted the need for summer signings.
Elimination from the Champions League group stages and Europa League round of 16 play-off, has reinforced the need for a host of signings this summer.
Any deal for the Fulham star could face complications, as the side from west London have valued Palhinha at a reported £80m and are keen to keep him at Craven Cottage for another year.
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