Manchester United emerge in race to sign £60m Premier League star after failed bid

Manchester United have emerged within the race to land a £60 million Premier League signing after Bayern Munich’s failed bid.

The Reds will be keen to get their transfer window right this summer despite the issues surrounding the managerial position right now.

Erik ten Hag’s future is currently unknown, but INEOS are reportedly set to communicate the Dutchman’s fate this week, which will be the kickstart for their summer window.

The Old Trafford club are in need of reinforcements in the midfield with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen likely to depart this summer.

According to recent reports from David Ornstein, Bayern Munich have made an offer in the region of £30 million to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham.

Palhinha, 28, joined the London-based club from Sporting Lisbon in the summer of 2022, and he has since become known as one of the best defensive-minded midfielders in the Premier League.

He made 39 appearances for the Cottagers last term, registering just four goals and one assist, but was crucial to their team throughout the campaign.

Now, Sky reporter Kaveh Solhekol has claimed that the Bundesliga giants were unsuccessful in their opening bid and Fulham instead value Palhinha at £60 million. He does not have a release clause in his contract either.

The report added that Barcelona and United are also interested in the 28-year-old midfielder. However, the Catalan club’s financial issues could provide a barrier.

Uncertainty surrounding the managerial situation at Old Trafford is another potential problem, the report noted; however, as previously mentioned, that could be solved later this week. 

It remains unknown whether United would step forward in their efforts to sign Palhinha, considering his age and the price tag attached to him.

Other midfield options the club are considering include the likes of Joao Neves from Benfica and Morten Hjulmand from Sporting Lisbon.