Fulham dash Wolves hopes after confirming impressive Joao Palhinha coup; Big fee, contract length revealed

Fulham have alleviated some of the growing discontent by signing Joao Palhinha, and the finer details of the midfielder’s move have been revealed.

Recent reports have shed light on Fulham’s labouring transfer window thus far. Manager Marco Silva reportedly wanted as many as 10 new signings, but prior to today, their tally stood at zero.

Mercifully for Cottagers fans, the club are off the mark and their first arrival is an impressive one.

Fulham have officially confirmed the capture of Sporting Lisbon midfielder, Joao Palhinha.

The defensive-minded star, 26, has 14 Portugal caps to his name and had emerged as a primary target for Wolves.

Bruno Lage’s side were looking to Palhinha as the ideal successor to the exit-linked Ruben Neves.

However, interest in Neves has failed to materialise, and a direct phonecall between Silva and Palhinha was claimed to have swung the pendulum in Fulham’s favour.

The move has now crossed the line with Palhinha penning a five-year deal until 2027. Fulham also have an option to extend his stay for a further 12 months.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano detailed the fee, reporting Fulham’s deal could total £19m if all add-ons are met.

That would make him the club’s fourth most expensive signing behind Jean Michael Seri, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Aleksandar Mitrović.

Joao Palhinha, Tony Khan speak out

“I’m very glad to be here,” Palhinha told Fulham’s in-house television station. “It’s a big opportunity for me, for my career, to play in what is – in my opinion – the best league in the world.

“I’ve signed with a great Club. The Club wanted me, and I chose the Club, so I promise the fans that I will do my best, and I hope we can win so many things in this season.”

Co-owner, Tony Khan, added: “João Palhinha has excelled in Portugal playing both club and international football. He’s been one of our top targets in this window.

“While there were other prominent clubs aiming to secure his signature, we’re thrilled that João chose to come here and that he wants to play for Fulham under our great coach Marco Silva, and we believe that João will be a valuable addition to strengthen the squad to compete this season in the Premier League.

“Come on Fulham!”