West Ham want Liverpool transfer target Joao Palhinha from Fulham
Fulham’s Joao Palinha is of transfer interest to West Ham following Declan Rice’s decision to leave The Hammers in the summer transfer window. That could prove to become a hindrance for Liverpool, as the Reds have Palhinha on their transfer radar amid calls for a midfield overhaul.
ECHO noted the Reds’ interest in the Portuguese international, but according to talkSPORT via ECHO again, West Ham have also joined the race to sign the former Sporting midfielder who has been extremely eye-catching throughout the entire season.
The 27-year-old defensive midfielder can also play centre-back more often than not and offers a lot of versatility that way. Liverpool surely need another player who could play the Fabinho role because of visible dips in levels of performance from the Brazilian this season and Joao Palhinha fits the bill.
It makes a lot of sense for West Ham to show interest in the player. Palhinha is very similar to Declan Rice when it comes to the style of play and attributes. But the Reds’ interest in a number of players could mean that Liverpool could let this one slide.
Palhinha to Liverpool?
His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several clubs vying for his signature. Liverpool’s interest in Palinha comes as no surprise, considering their desire to strengthen the midfield following the departure of key players.
However, with West Ham in the picture, the situation becomes more complex. Should Declan Rice leave the London club, West Ham sees Palinha as a potential replacement.
This adds a twist to the story and could impact Liverpool’s pursuit of the talented midfielder. talkSPORT believe that Palhinha’s contract consists of an active release clause but there is no numerical value to it.
Meanwhile, a tweet by Fabrizio Romano claims that there is no release clause at all in the player’s contract. It seems like something that has been kept under wraps by the Cottagers.
More Liverpool News
- Arsenal in advanced negotiations to sign Liverpool target Declan Rice
- Chelsea eye Liverpool target and Brighton star Moises Caicedo
- Liverpool target Khephren Thuram keen on Anfield move
As the transfer window unfolds, Liverpool will need to carefully navigate the competition for Palinha’s signature. The allure of Anfield and Klopp’s track record of nurturing talent could be an enticing factor. However, West Ham’s interest complicates matters.
