Fulham confirm Palhinha transfer to Bayern Munich

Joao Palhinha has joined Bayern Munich for a fee worth around £43.3million, according to Sky Sports.

The midfielder had four years left on his contract at Craven Cottage but made it clear he would like to join the Bundesliga giants.

Palhinha, 29, looked set to leave West London in January, only for his move to be blocked in the last minute.

Bayern then had a bid rejected earlier this summer, but new head coach Vincent Kompany has finally got his man, who will join fellow Premier League star Michael Olise in Germany.

Chief strategy officer Tony Khan said: “Joao Palhinha has been a fantastic player for Fulham since he joined us in July 2022.

“His formidable presence in the midfield, his aggressiveness and phenomenal skill have made him a fan favourite and a leader on the pitch for Fulham.

One of the best we’ve seen at our Cottage.

Thank you and good luck, João. 🫶

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) July 11, 2024

“All of us at the Club are grateful for Joao’s hard work, the time we shared with him, and the great memories from these past few years working together.

“We’ve reached an agreement today that could result in the highest transfer negotiation in Club history, with these resources coming in at an essential time in our summer squad planning for the season ahead and our long-term future.

“We wish Joao the very best in his new journey. Come on Fulham!”

Palhinha has signed a four-year deal with Bayern and will play a key part in helping the side try and reclaim the title.

Bayern went trophyless for the first time since 2012 last season, being pipped to the crown by Bayer Leverkusen.

But the Portugal international is optimistic that he can steer one of the biggest clubs in the world back to the top.

𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆.

FC Bayern sign João Palhinha! ✍️ #ServusJoão

🔗 https://t.co/Ivg2KUjLUg#ServusJoão #FCBayern #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/fKh7OH9yrP

— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) July 11, 2024

He said: “This is one of the happiest days of my life.

“I’m now playing for one of the top clubs in Europe. It’s a dream come true for me, and I’m very proud of that.

“I’m looking forward to the atmosphere and the fans at the Allianz Arena.

“I want to enjoy success with FC Bayern and win titles – I’ll give it my all.”