Fulham head coach Marco Silva has, on Thursday, spoken out over the future of star midfielder Joao Palhinha.
Palhinha’s name, of course, took its place front and centre in the headlines across the latter weeks of the summer transfer window.
This came upon word coming to the fore that the Portuguese international had been identified as a chief target on the part of German heavyweights Bayern Munich.
Palhinha, for his part, pushed hard for the move, unsurprisingly tempted by the prospect of lining out for one of European football’s biggest clubs.
In the end, however, despite the 28-year-old going as far as to complete a medical in Bavaria, the transfer fell through.
João Palhinha deal, 100% OFF. No way to change the situation despite medical and media duties done today 🔴❌
Been told Fulham tried last minute for Scott McTominay… but no deal on player side and Palhinha will return to Fulham. pic.twitter.com/VdOTItTQyf
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2023
Bayern, nevertheless, were expected to return for his signature in January, still keen to add to the options at the base of Thomas Tuchel’s midfield.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, the future of his side’s engine room talisman, and Bayern’s ongoing interest in his services, were therefore put to Marco Silva once more.
And, somewhat surprisingly, the Cottagers boss went on to hint that, should a sufficient bid be forthcoming, he and the powers that be in south London will take it very much into consideration:
“I cannot control the future, when you receive some big offers and the size of that club there will be more noise around. What is going to happen in January or next summer I cannot control”,
Fulham manager Silva on Palhinha deal for January: “I cannot control the future, when you receive some big offers and the size of that club there will be more noise around”. 🔴🇵🇹
“What is going to happen in January or next summer I cannot control”, via Standard Sport. pic.twitter.com/nSVS61hyMb
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 21, 2023
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