Exclusive: Fulham’s preferred Joao Palhinha deal structure revealed as decision made
Fulham would prefer to bring Joao Palhinha back to the club with a loan-to-buy deal, sources have told Football Insider.
The Cottagers are preparing to register their interest in an agreement with Bayern Munich with Palhinha struggling to break into Vincent Kompany’s squad.
He had established himself as one of the Premier League‘s leading defensive midfielders prior to his £48million move to Bavaria.
However, it is believed Fulham are not willing to come anywhere close to that fee if they were to bring him back.
Fulham want loan-to-buy Palhinha deal
Sources say the west London club are keen to re-sign the Portugal international on an initial loan with a potential option to buy.
Palhinha endured a disappointing first season with Bayern, playing only 941 minutes of action in the 2024-25 campaign.
| Appearances | 79 |
| Minutes Played | 6623 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Yellow Cards | 27 |
He has travelled to the United States for the Club World Cup but has been an unused substitute in both matches so far this month.
The midfielder made 79 appearances over two seasons with Fulham before leaving last year (2024) and led the Premier League for tackles and interceptions in that time.
His contract with Bayern Munich is set to run until June 2028.
Fulham confident of staving off Muniz interest
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (23 June) that Fulham are confident of pricing Leeds United out of a move for striker Rodrigo Muniz this summer.
The Cottagers have already turned down a bid of £26million plus £6million in add-ons from Leeds.
Daniel Farke‘s side could return with another offer in a bid to test Fulham’s resolve – but it is believed the London club are confident of keeping the striker at Craven Cottage.
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