Man United hit with transfer setback as Joao Palhinha makes it clear he wants to stay at Bayern Munich | OneFootball

Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha reportedly remains fully committed to his side and is not considering a summer move, despite interest from Manchester United.

United have had a busy transfer window so far, bringing in Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and engaging in talks with Brentford over a deal for Bryan Mbeumo.

A move to Old Trafford for Mbeumo is believed to be on the verge of completion, with the player expected to undergo his United medical next week ahead of a transfer worth over £60 million.

United’s focus will now turn to strengthening other areas, including midfield. With Christian Eriksen confirmed to depart at the end of the month when his contract expires, and doubts lingering over Casemiro’s future, the club are expected to target reinforcements in the middle of the park.

This is where Palhinha comes in. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United were exploring a potential loan deal for the Bayern man.

It was stated that the Red Devils view Palhinha as an appealing, lower-cost option thanks to his Premier League experience and suitability for Ruben Amorim’s style of play. The pair also have a history together, having previously worked alongside each other at Sporting CP before Palhinha’s move to Fulham.

But, Bayern are expected to prioritise a permanent move, with Palhinha also attracting interest from Fulham and West Ham.

The Portugal international joined Bayern last summer in a £46 million deal from Fulham but has struggled to secure a regular starting place under Vincent Kompany. Hampered by injuries and intense competition in Bayern’s midfield, Palhinha’s underwhelming spell in Bavaria has sparked speculation about his future, with the club now open to listening to offers.

The defensive midfielder made a mere 17 Bundesliga appearances last term.

However, according to German journalist Christian Falk, Palhinha does not want to leave the Allianz Arena this summer.

Falk told CaughtOffside, “There are also no developments regarding João Palhinha.”

“The player is still keen to establish himself at FC Bayern and is currently not interested in returning to Fulham.”

It’s understood Bayern want to recoup most of what they paid Fulham for the 29-year-old but would accept offers ranging between €30m-35m [£25.6m-29.9m]. Bayern are yet to receive any concrete approaches for the player.

Featured image Kevin C. Cox via Getty Images

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