Fulham are set to beat Wolves to the signing of Joao Palhinha from Sporting CP. The 26-year-old will fly to England to complete the medical for the transfer in the coming days, as a deal has been agreed between the two clubs for the move.
He was tempted by the Wolves offer, but has instead decided to join the Premier League returnees as they look to prevent a drop right back down. The transfer fee that Sporting will receive for the deal is around €18 million plus add-ons.
Joao Palhinha to join Fulham despite Wolves interest
The Portugal international has earned fourteen caps for the national team. He operates as a defensive midfielder, and made 27 appearances in the league this past season, scoring three goals from the heart of the park.
His contributions helped Sporting finish second in the league, and despite a contract until 2026 with the club, Joao Palhinha will now leave to play in the biggest leagues in the world. He is expected to be the replacement for Jean Michael Seri, who left the club recently.
Marco Silva has not been able to add to the team just yet, but the arrival of Manor Solomon is expected in the coming days. The Israeli international will cost the club around £7 million, as he joins from Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk. Fulham have also been linked with the signing of Neco Williams from Liverpool, but are unwilling to meet their £15 million tag.
