‘More to his game’: Danny Murphy says Liverpool target Joao Palhinha is actually better than Ruben Neves

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Danny Murphy believes Liverpool target Joao Palhinha is actually a better player than Ruben Neves, who is also on the Anfield radar.

Murphy has been speaking to the Daily Mail having seen his former club Fulham enjoy a great season so far.

Murphy hailed a number of players who have been shining at Craven Cottage, including summer signings like Andreas Pereira and Joao Palhinha.

Pereira is shining with his creative play but the heartbeat of the Fulham midfield is anchor man Palhinha.

The Portugal star arrived from Sporting over the summer having been linked with a host of top clubs during his time in Lisbon.

Fulham won the race and Murphy is now hailing Palhinha as a ‘steal’ at just £17million.

Murphy added that he thinks Palhinha is better than compatriot Ruben Neves, suggesting that the Fulham star actually has ‘more to his game’.

“Portugal international Joao Palhinha is a steal at £17million (Wolves were also interested in case they lost Ruben Neves). In my opinion Palhinha is better, with more to his game,” said Murphy.

Liverpool may need to consider Joao Palhinha over Ruben Neves

Murphy’s praise for Palhinha comes amid claims that another of his former clubs – Liverpool – are interested in signing him.

Transfer insider Dean Jones told GiveMeSport earlier this month that Liverpool and Tottenham are both looking at Palhinha as a possible signing.

The Mirror reported just a few days later that Liverpool want to sign Ruben Neves too, eyeing the Wolves ace for an Anfield move.

Maybe Liverpool will end up signing both players but a decision between the two would be a lot closer than thought even six months ago.

Liverpool have seen Fabinho’s form nosedive this season and signing another big, powerful holding midfielder who can dictate the game could be key.

Palhinha can do just that, and there would be an argument that he is more of what Liverpool need than a midfielder like Neves right now.

Both are quality players but you could hardly blame Liverpool for looking at Palhinha’s defensive masterclasses this season and thinking he can help change Jurgen Klopp’s engine room moving forward.