Bayern Munich eye Fulham's Joao Palhinha as potential replacement for Ryan Gravenberch

Rob Fleming
31 August 2023

Bayern Munich are reportedly eyeing a move for Fulham's Joao Palhinha as they consider a possible replacement for Ryan Gravenberch, who is being courted by Manchester United and Liverpool.

The Bayern midfielder faced challenges during his debut season in 2022/23, having arrived from Ajax, with limited appearances for the Bundesliga powerhouse.

Gravenberch has been at the centre of transfer speculations, with both Liverpool and Manchester United expressing interest. Liverpool recently made substantial investments to strengthen their midfield, signing Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endo.

Manchester United, meanwhile, secured Mason Mount from Chelsea and are reportedly vying for Gravenberch's signature.

Although Bayern have consistently stated that Gravenberch is not for sale, German outlet Sport1 reveals their desire to acquire a new defensive midfielder, with Palhinha being their top choice.

The Portuguese international had a standout debut season in the Premier League with Fulham last year, and Sport1 suggests that Bayern Munich are keen to submit a bid for Palhinha to fulfil coach Thomas Tuchel's wish for a defensive midfielder.