are set to reignite their interest in Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha but will not enjoy a free run at the international.
The former Porto star appeared all set to join ’s side in the only for the deal to collapse on deadline day with the Cottagers unable to secure a replacement.
Palhinha was forced to make a demoralising return trip to west London have already undergone a medial in Munich ahead of completing the formalities of his dream transfer.
The 28-year-old could have been forgiven for sulking and taking his foot off the gas ahead of the January window, but he has instead delivered a series of outstanding performances which have only helped enhance his burgeoning reputation.
Fulham are braced to field interest in their star player again next month and although Bayern remain keen they are no longer the only interested party.
According to the , several Premier League clubs are in the hunt with Arsenal and Liverpool understood to be monitoring Palhinha’s situation.
Jurgen Klopp rebuilt his engine room over the summer but a specialist No.6 remains a top priority with Alex Mac Allister filling in in an unfamiliar role and Wataru Endo only likel to prove a short-term signing.
Arsenal, meanwhile, must sell before they buy in January but midfield reinforcements are likely to be required if they are to sustain their title challenge.
Thomas Partey is out until the New Year and is set to take part in the Africa Cup of Nations in any case, while Mohamad Elneny and Jorginho represent the only cover for Declan Rice.
In an interview with Bild last month, Christoph Freund, the Bayern sporting director, confirmed that the club remain keen on signing Palhinha.
‘Of course he is still on our radar,’ said Freund. ‘The club worked intensively with Palhinha in the summer. I was there for a bit on the last, strange day of the transfer window. But you can’t say yet what will happen.’
Last week, Palhinha told the Fulham Fix podcast that he believes the Premier League is the ‘best league in the world’ and the division that is best suited to his style of play.
‘I always looked to the Premier League as the best league for me as a player,” he said. “My characteristics, what I want to do on the pitch, for me it is the best league that I fit.’
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