Arsenal reportedly made an approach to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha just before the FIFA Club World Cup tournament.
The Gunners were looking for an experienced defensive midfielder, and they earmarked Palhinha as an option, despite signing Martin Zubimendi.
The Portuguese midfielder joined Bayern in the summer of 2024 from Fulham, but he failed to make a big impact under Vincent Kompany last season.
Palhinha faces uncertain future at Bayern Munich
Joao Palhinha playing for Bayern Munich
(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Bayern need to recoup some money from selling players in order to sign Luis Diaz and Nick Woltemade, and Palhinha is one of them who could be sold.
According to a report from Bild, Arsenal made an approach to sign Palhinha, and they even discussed concrete figures.
The Gunners wanted him because of his previous experience in the Premier League with Fulham. The north London club were attracted by his robust and uncompromising style of play.
Palhinha was on top of their list of priority targets, but ultimately, they could not reach an agreement.
Palhinha wants to stay at Bayern, but doubts remain whether Kompany will give enough opportunities. However, only a top offer would change his mind.
Inter Milan are interested in him, while clubs in England, Italy, Spain, Turkey and Portugal are also keen to get his signature.
Christian Falk informed CFBayern that the Bavarian would be happy to let him go if they receive a fee of around £26m.
Bayern are overstocked in central midfield areas, and they can afford to sell Palhinha.
Could Arsenal or Man Utd reignite interest?
Palhinha was linked with a move to Manchester United this summer, but as of now, there has been no offer on the table from the Red Devils.
Could Arsenal make another move for Palhinha towards the end of the window? The Gunners could get him at a decent price if Bayern fail to offload him.
Arsenal are focusing on bolstering their attacking options, but Palhinha would still be a fantastic addition to the side.
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