Manchester United 'keen on summer deal for Fulham's Joao Palhinha'

Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha during this summer's transfer window.

The Red Devils boosted their midfield last year with the arrivals of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, but Scott McTominay is widely expected to leave in the upcoming market, which would open up a spot in the squad.

Man United are said to be planning to make a big-money offer for Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane this summer, so there might not be room in the budget for another high-profile addition in midfield.

As a result, Erik ten Hag's side are said to be exploring alternatives to the likes of Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham and West Ham United's Declan Rice, who have price tags of around £100m.

According to The Sun, the 20-time English champions are one of a number of Premier League clubs interested in signing Palhinha during this summer's transfer window.

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The report claims that Newcastle United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on the Portugal international, who has starred for the Cottagers this season.

Palhinha came through the youth system at Sporting Lisbon and represented the Portuguese giants on 95 occasions before moving to Fulham last summer.

The 27-year-old cost Marco Silva's side around £17m, and he has played 29 times for his London club during the 2022-23 campaign, contributing four goals in the process.

Palhinha signed a five-year deal with Fulham upon his arrival, placing the club in a strong position when it comes to any potential summer negotiations.

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The Cottagers are now thought to value the Portuguese in excess of £40m, but the club could be in a position to keep him if they secure European football for next season.

A total of 39 points from 27 matches has left Fulham in eighth position in the table, two points behind sixth-placed Newcastle United.

Palhinha could not help the Cottagers on Sunday afternoon, though, missing Arsenal's 3-0 victory at Craven Cottage through suspension.

The midfielder has also been capped on 18 occasions by his country and featured on three occasions at the 2022 World Cup, with Fernando Santos's side reaching the quarter-finals in Qatar.

As well as looking to boost their midfield and attack, Man United are expected to be in the market for another centre-back this summer, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof both being linked with summer exits.