Liverpool not interested in signing Joao Palhinha from Fulham
Liverpool has confirmed that they are not interested in signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha as a replacement for Fabinho in January or in the summer. Despite attracting interest from top European clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool sources have indicated that they will not pursue Palhinha due to the high asking price set by Fulham. Instead, Liverpool is focusing on Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio as a potential center-back signing in the January transfer window.
Palhinha, who nearly moved to Bayern Munich in the summer, has been the subject of much attention from several top clubs. However, Liverpool has chosen to pass on the opportunity to bring him to Anfield. The departure of Fabinho to Al-Ittihad in the summer left a void in Liverpool’s midfield, but they have managed to perform exceptionally well without him so far this season.
Arsenal has emerged as a potential destination for Palhinha, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to strengthen his central midfield options. However, the high price set by Fulham has made a January move unlikely for the Gunners. Transfer insider Dean Jones has also confirmed Liverpool’s interest in reinforcing their squad, particularly in the defensive midfield position.
Despite reports suggesting that Liverpool might be considering a move for Palhinha, journalist Ben Jacobs has provided clarity on the situation. According to his sources, Liverpool is not interested in the midfielder, and the club would not be willing to pay the high price demanded by Fulham. Jacobs also highlighted that even in the summer, Palhinha is not a name on Liverpool’s radar.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is actively searching for a replacement for injured center-back Joel Matip. Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio has caught the attention of Liverpool’s senior staff, who are reportedly scouting the 22-year-old defender ahead of the January transfer window. Manchester United is also said to be interested in Inacio, making it a potential transfer battle between the two Premier League rivals.
Inacio has been a key player for Sporting CP this season, contributing three goals in 21 appearances across all competitions. Liverpool and Manchester United will both be hoping to secure his signature, as they look to strengthen their defensive options. With Matip sidelined due to a serious knee injury, Liverpool will be eager to find a suitable replacement to ensure they maintain their strong form in the Premier League.
Overall, Liverpool’s focus remains on finding a center-back rather than pursuing a move for Joao Palhinha. While Palhinha is attracting attention from top clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool sources have made it clear that he is not a target for them. The high asking price set by Fulham further diminishes the likelihood of a January move for the Portuguese midfielder. Liverpool fans will now be keeping a close eye on the pursuit of Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio as they hope for a successful transfer window.
