Liverpool had an attempt to buy Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha knocked back earlier this summer.
The Reds have been linked with a move for Palhinha as they try to bolster their midfield for next season. And according to Spanish outlet Sport, Liverpool have already tried – and failed – with a bid to bring the Portugal international to Anfield.
They’re not the only ones to have had a go, though. Sport claim that Premier League rivals Manchester United have also made an unsuccessful approach for Palhinha. Fulham reportedly simply won’t sell to an English domestic rival. Bayern Munich are said to have been interested too, but are no longer prioritising the 27-year-old.
Palhinha isn’t the most glamorous midfielder to have been linked with Liverpool this summer, but he’d no doubt do well at Anfield.
Strong, energetic and even a goal threat, the Portuguese has shown all the qualities needed in a top defensive midfielder. His displays deservedly earned praise from Reds boss Jurgen Klopp.
As Klopp ponders what do with a problem like Fabinho, Palhinha could have been a ready-made fit.
Finally, Barcelona are claimed to be looking at Palhinha as a replacement for Sergio Busquets. Along with reported Liverpool targets Sofyan Amrabat and Florentino Luis, the Fulham man is said to be an alternative for the more expensive Martin Zubimendi, of Real Sociedad.
Palhinha still won’t come cheap, though. The Cottagers are claimed to be valuing him at around £43m. However, there is reportedly ‘a lot of room’ for negotiation with Barca.
