Bayern Munich are now close to signing an Arsenal target as Vincent Kompany settles in at the Allianz Arena.
After knocking the Gunners out of the UEFA Champions League in April, the German giants are now aiming to beat the north Londoners to a transfer target and bolster the Belgian’s squad – which remarkably finished third in the Bundesliga last season.
So, who could Bayern Munich sign ahead of Arsenal? Let’s take a look…
Bayern Munich close to signing Joao Palhinha
Bayern Munich are now close to signing Fulham No.26 Joao Palhinha – according to Fabrizio Romano.
It comes after Dean Jones told Give Me Sport that the Portugal international is on Arsenal’s radar – with Thomas Partey expected to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer.
The reliable Romano claims that Bayern Munich have reached an agreement on personal terms with Palhinha – and are now in talks over payment terms with Fulham regarding the €45m (£38m) deal.
On X, the Italian wrote: “Bayern have reached an agreement on personal terms with Joao Palhinha!
“Contract ready, salary agreed and green light from the player who really wants to make it happen. Club to club talks to follow around €45m (£38m) fee, as @Plettigoal and @SkySportDe report. Getting closer.”
As you may recall, Bayern Munich thought they had a deal for Palhinha wrapped up in January, with the Portuguese stalwart even travelling to Germany for a medical before the move collapsed.
The 28-year-old made 33 Premier League appearances for the Cottagers last season, scoring four goals while also providing one assist.
Arsenal can make a more sensible signing
In our view, Arteta and Edu won’t be too upset by this.
Palhinha is 28 years of age – meaning he commands little resell value – and Bayern Munich are paying a premium as he still has four years remaining on his contract.
Therefore, Arsenal can make a more sensible signing by finding someone younger – and cheaper – to replace Partey, such as Youssouf Fofana (25) who the Gunners are reportedly in talks to sign for £20m.
READ MORE: Brazilian media give Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli their rating after he scored for the national team
If not the Frenchman, Arsenal could also splash out to sign a player Arteta has wanted for over 12 months in Martin Zubimendi.
Be sure to keep an eye on developments at Arsenal, as the Gunners are expected to make reinforcements.