German heavyweights Bayern Munich have been dealt a heavy blow on the personnel front, late on deadline day.
This comes in the form of confirmation that the Bavarians’ swoop for Fulham star Joao Palhinha has definitively collapsed.
The name of Fulham midfielder Palhinha, of course, has taken its place front and centre in the headlines at the Allianz Arena over the course of the last 24 hours.
This comes after word was forthcoming that the Portuguese international had made his way to Germany, to undergo a medical with Thomas Tuchel’s side.
With Bayern having subsequently green-lighted Ryan Gravenberch’s Liverpool switch, the widespread understanding, in turn, was that Palhinha’s unveiling as the latest member of the Bundesliga champions’ squad was imminent.
In turn, it will no doubt come as a heavy blow to the player, Bayern hierarchy, and fanbase alike, to hear that, in fact, the transfer has fallen through.
‘João Palhinha deal, 100% OFF. No way to change the situation despite medical and media duties done today.’
This comes after Fulham’s late attempt to replace the club’s talismanic engine room star with Manchester United’s Scott McTominay failed to bear fruit, owing to the Scot’s refusal to make the move to west London.
With fellow Cottagers target Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg preferring a move to Spain with Atletico Madrid, the brass at Craven Cottage have therefore been left with little choice but to keep hold of the wantaway Palhinha.
Some added spice ahead of the upcoming Champions League group stage double-header between Bayern and Man United, perhaps…
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
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