Arsenal have escalated their midfield reinforcement ahead of the new season, entering “serious negotiations” with Bayern Munich to sign defensive powerhouse Joao Palhinha, according to German outlet Bild.
Arsenal deepen pursuit of Bayern’s Joao Palhinha in serious negotiations
After early-window moves for Martin Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard, Gunners chief Mikel Arteta has made Palhinha a key target.
Discussions reportedly intensified before Bayern’s Club World Cup campaign, indicating real momentum behind the deal. “Concrete figures” have been floated, marking a firm step beyond mere interest.
The Portuguese midfielder arrived in Bavaria last summer from Fulham for around £47.4 million but endured a season hampered by injury and fierce competition from Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich to rising rookie Tom Bischof—limiting him to just 17 appearances.
Bayern, open to trimming their squad, are reportedly willing to sell for €25–30 million, a steep loss but reflective of Palhinha’s role in Kompany’s reshuffle.
Italian giants Inter Milan are also in the running, but Arsenal appear to be pushing hard to land the 30‑year‑old alongside their midfield reinforcements.
If negotiations succeed, the impact on this youthful Gunners unit could be profound: Palhinha’s combative style characterized by powerful tackles, aerial dominance and leadership would perfectly complement Arteta’s vision.
Still, there’s no deal yet: personal terms with Palhinha haven’t been agreed, and alternative targets remain under consideration.
