Transfer Centre

Marco Silva admits he cannot control Joao Palhinha future amid Bayern links

By Ben Sully | 22 September 2023

Silva admits he cannot control Palhinha future amid Bayern links

Fulham boss Marco Silva admits that he is unable to offer any assurances on Joao Palhinha's future amid links with German champions Bayern Munich.

Fulham boss Marco Silva has conceded that he cannot control Joao Palhinha's future amid links with Bayern Munich.

Palhinha, who joined Fulham from Sporting Lisbon in the summer of 2022, was on the verge of completing a move to the German champions on the final day of the transfer window earlier this month.

The Portuguese midfielder flew out to Munich after Bayern had tabled a £56m fee, which would have represented a club-record sale for Fulham.

However, the proposed transfer fell through after Fulham failed to find a replacement, ensuring that Palhinha remained at Craven Cottage.

The 28-year-old has since signed a new contract with the Cottagers until June 2028 with an option to extend by a further 12 months.

Joao Palhinha celebrates scoring for Fulham on September 16, 2022 © Reuters

Despite putting pen to paper on a long-term deal, Palhinha continues to be linked with a move to Bayern, who could decide to renew their interest in January.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's away meeting with Crystal Palace, Silva admitted that he has little control over Palhinha's future.

"I cannot control the future — and not just about Joao," Silva told reporters in Thursday's pre-match press conference.

"When you receive some big offers, and the size of that club, there will be more noise around. What is going to happen in January or next summer I cannot control. The club has the control. He can keep playing and be a key player for us."

Fulham manager Marco Silva on September 2, 2023 © Reuters

Palhinha made his first appearance since his failed deadline-day move in Fulham's narrow 1-0 victory against Luton Town last weekend.

While the Portugal international is expected to retain his place in the side, Silva has confirmed he is without three players for Saturday's trip to Selhurst Park.

Sasa Lukic remains sidelined with a knee problem, while Tosin Adarabioyo and Adama Traore are also ruled out with injury issues.

In more positive news, Silva revealed that USA international Antonee Robinson will be fit after recovering from a muscular injury which kept him out of the win over Luton.