Bayern Munich near agreement to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham

Bayern Munich are close to signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha, who has been on their radar since 2023.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the clubs are finalizing a fee exceeding £42 million for the Portuguese international.

Potential add-ons will see it around £46.2 million, just four million shy of Fulham’s record sale of Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Bayern’s initial attempt to sign Palhinha in 2023 fell through on transfer deadline day.

Under new manager Vincent Kompany, Bayern renewed their interest, despite Fulham initially rejecting three offers and setting a £59 million asking price.

However, the current agreement, though lower, includes favourable payment terms.

Palhinha is expected to sign a four-year deal pending a medical.

His departure could facilitate Fulham’s pursuit of Fluminense’s Brazilian midfielder Andre, who attracted a £30 million bid from the London club in January.