Bayern Munich has reached an agreement in principle with Fulham to sign midfielder João Palhinha for up to €56 million ($60.4m), sources told ESPN.
This transfer marks a record sale for Fulham, with €51 million paid upfront and an additional €5 million in potential add-ons. The 28-year-old Palhinha is expected to sign a four-year contract.
Currently part of Portugal’s squad preparing for the Euro 2024 quarterfinal against France on Friday, Palhinha will finalize the deal once Portugal’s tournament run concludes.
This move concludes Bayern’s year-long pursuit of Palhinha, after a previous agreement fell through last summer due to Fulham’s difficulties in finding a replacement. Although Palhinha was initially allowed to travel to Germany for a medical, Fulham ultimately canceled the transfer.
Last weekend, Palhinha stated, “Regarding my future, both clubs know where I want to be in a month. Right now, I’m focused on my work with the national team and making history for my country.”
Palhinha joined Fulham from Sporting CP in 2022, making 79 appearances and winning the club’s Player of the Year award in his first season.
