Arsenal were reportedly thought to have looked at a move to sign Bayern Munich star Joao Palhinha prior to the start of the FIFA Club World Cup, according to reports - with the Gunners thought to have talked about 'concrete terms' over a move for the former Sporting star to bolster their midfield ranks.
With Thomas Partey and Jorginho having departed the club following the expiration of their contracts, the Gunners were in the market for midfield recruits to replace the exiting duo. That reportedly saw them make a move to sign Palhinha, though a deal wasn't done as he travelled to play for Bayern in the American-based tournament.
Report: Arsenal 'Held Talks' for Palhinha Before Club World Cup
The Portuguese midfielder was on Arsenal's radar earlier this summer
Joao Palhinha watching on from the Bayern Munich bench
The report by German outlet BILD states that the Gunners made an approach to sign Palhinha just before the Club World Cup which began in June, with the club looking for an experienced defensive midfielder - despite already having a move for midfielder Martin Zubimendi all but confirmed.
The Portuguese star joined Bayern from Premier League side Fulham in 2024, but he didn't have the desired impact under Vincent Kompany, and after just 17 Bundesliga appearances, he could be on his way out of the Bavarian club.
Joao Palhinha's Premier League statistics - Bayern squad ranking
Stats
Appearances
Pass Completion % Per Game
Clearances Per Game
Tackles Per Game
Interceptions Per Game
Match rating
With that in mind, Arsenal made an approach to sign the Portuguese tough tackler, and even discussed 'concrete figures' with Bayern over a move for his services. Mikel Arteta wanted him in due to his previous experience in the top-flight with Fulham, where he set tackling records in his final season in the league before his move to the Bundesliga.
Palhinha was at the 'top' of their list of priority targets, but they couldn't reach an agreement for his services, and although he wants to stay at Bayern, doubts remain over whether Kompany will give him more opportunities next season, with only a top offer being able to convince him to move on from Bavaria, where he earns £200,000-a-week.
Bayern would reportedly be happy to let him go if they received a fee of £26million, according to CFBayern - though with Arsenal having landed Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard, it's a deal that looks outside of the realms of possibility now, especially with Zubimendi having also joined alongside him.
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 17-07-25.
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