One of Portugal’s Nations League final heroes has spoken out about his future amid reported interest from Manchester United this summer.
While the domestic season came to a close toward the end of last month, Portugal, Spain, Germany, and France battled it out to be crowned the winners of the 2025 Nations League trophy.
Portugal secured their place with a 2-1 win over Germany last week, while France were beaten out 5-4 by Spain, despite a stunning almost-comeback in the second half after initially being 5-1 down.
In the final, Portugal and Spain battled out a tense 2-2 draw before the former secured the win on penalties, with Diogo Costa saving Alvaro Morata’s effort while Portugal converted all five of theirs.
Manchester United duo Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot were then pictured with the trophies, with the latter celebrating alongside former Red Cristiano Ronaldo.
United linked with Bayern’s Palhinha
Although United’s initial focus has been on securing new attacking signings, with Matheus Cunha through the door and Bryan Mbeumo hopefully following soon after, head coach Rúben Amorim also wants to secure a midfielder this summer.
Reports late last week claimed that the club had registered their interest in Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha, another member of Portugal’s winning squad. However, he did not feature in the final.
According to English reports, United are eyeing the player who Bayern signed from Fulham for £46 million last summer, but are willing to let him go for £25 million after he failed to settle down under Vincent Kompany in Germany.
However, Amorim’s men will be facing competition from Fulham, who are keen on the idea of bringing him back to Craven Cottage this summer.
Palhinha is taking time with his decision
Amid growing speculation about his future, the 29-year-old was asked after the Nations League final what the future holds for him, to which he explained that he will fly back to Portugal and enjoy his holiday before deciding on his next destination.
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“My future will now involve catching a plane back to my country,” he began by saying in a relaxed manner, as per A Bola.
“I have a contract with Bayern Munich, as I said, it’s a subject that has been talked about a lot, at the moment I just want to return to Portugal, give this medal to my children and enjoy it with my family.”
With Amorim seeking players who have Premier League experience to elevate the physical capabilities of the squad, Palhinha’s availability for £25 million could prove to be a steal.
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