Liverpool want Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha but are ‘unsure’ whether or not to pay the £60million-plus being demanded.
Joao Palhinha is under consideration at Liverpool but Fulham’s asking price could be a problem.
That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim that Palhinha is the ‘most admired’ of Liverpool’s midfield targets.
Liverpool had been targeting Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo but are remarkably set to miss out on both to Chelsea.
The Reds must now turn to other options and Liverpool appear to have Palhinha at the top of their wish list.
However, it’s stated that Liverpool are ‘unsure’ about potentially paying the £60million-plus Fulham are demanding.
Liverpool will be well aware that Palhinha is already 28 and would have limited resale value.
That isn’t the be all and end all, but Liverpool may well be mindful of paying £60million or even more for a player heading towards his 30’s.
Joao Palhinha could be the defensive presence Liverpool need
Age will be a factor for Liverpool as they weigh up a bid for Palhinha but he’s certainly the defensive monster needed at Anfield.
The midfield trio of Alexis Mac Alister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo started against Chelsea but were cut through at times.
Liverpool need somebody who can protect their back four and provide a strong base for Mac Allister and Szoboszlai.
Palhinha – hailed as ‘absolutely phenomenal’ by pundit Danny Murphy – can be that player having impressed for Fulham last season.
The Portugal international racked up a staggering 147 tackles last season, 47 more than second-placed Caicedo.
Palhinha also ranked in the top 20 for interceptions and has proven himself as a top defensive midfielder.
Liverpool may be hesitating on a bid for Palhinha but if it’s immediate defensive impact they want, the Fulham star may well be their man.
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