- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Bayern Munich are now confident of striking a deal for one Premier League ace this summer.
A new midfielder could well be high on the list of targets for Bayern Munich this summer with the future of Joshua Kimmich uncertain.
HITC reported last month that Manchester City and Barcelona were ready to fight it out to sign the German midfielder.
As a result of this, the Bavarian side are looking at potential replacements and HITC understands that the player they are keen on is Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha and sources have explained that the German giants are confident of striking a deal.
Deal moving closer but Bayern insist on asking price
Despite confidence from those at Bayern that a deal could be struck, sources have told HITC that they will not meet Fulham’s asking price for the Portuguese midfielder, believed to be £60 million.
HITC has been told by sources close to the deal that Bayern’s second bid worth around £40m has been turned down by Fulham.
This followed Bayern’s opening offer for the former Sporting Lisbon midfielder, which was understood to be in the region of £35 million.
Fulham are open to allowing Palhinha to move, as they gave their word to him they would consider a fresh bid from Bayern after they failed to get him last summer.
Last season for the Cottagers, Palhinha was excellent as he remains one of the club’s most important players.
Fulham could be open to negotation for Palhinha deal
Bayern boss Vincent Kompany is seemingly keen on pushing the boat out to land the Portuguese midfielder but there may have to be some wriggle room for a deal to get done.
Fulham are said to be standing firm on their £60 million valuation of the midfielder but it is our understanding that there is room for negotiation with this deal.
The West London club may be willing to accept less than the £60 million valuation on the midfielder but it is highly unlikely Marco Silva’s side would accept any offer less than £50 million.
With the German giants £10 million short from the £50 million fee, they will have to increase this offer if they want to get a deal over the line.
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