Bayern Munich Confirms Signing Of Joao Palhinha From Fulham

João Palhinha has joined Bayern Munich from Premier League side Fulham on a four-year contract.

While financial details were not disclosed, The Athletic reported the deal was worth 51 million euros.

“This is one of the happiest days of my life,” Palhinha said. “I’m now playing for one of the top clubs in Europe. It’s a dream come true for me, and I’m very proud of that. I’m looking forward to the atmosphere and the fans at the Allianz Arena. I want to enjoy success with FC Bayern and win titles I’ll give it my all.”

The 28-year-old almost joined Bayern last summer, but the transfer fell through on deadline day. Following this, he extended his contract with Fulham to 2028.

Despite the initial setback, Bayern continued to pursue the player and has now successfully secured his services for the coming years.

“João Palhinha was highly sought after by FC Bayern even last summer and rightly so,” Bayern sporting director Max Eberl said. “It was important that we never lost touch. João wanted to come to Bayern, and we need players like that. He’s an important building block for our future.

“He’s once again demonstrated his strengths on the big stage at the Euros and brings a lot of experience, having previously played at the Euros and World Cup, and making around 300 appearances in the Portuguese and English leagues. He will give us greater stability in the center.”

The midfielder, who made 39 appearances in all competitions for Fulham last season, is Vincent Kompany’s second big-name signing since being named Bayern boss last month, with Michael Olise’s move to the Bavarian giant confirmed on Sunday.

Japan defender, Hiroki Ito joined in June on a four-year contract in what was the first new signing of the Kompany era.

Fulham paid just £17m in 2022 to sign the Portugal international from Sporting CP, and he was the Premier League’s most prolific tackler in both of his seasons in England.

His standout performances have helped Fulham avoid relegation comfortably in both of his two seasons at the, achieving 10th and 13th place finishes in the league.

Palhinha was part of Portugal’s squad that reached the quarterfinals of Euro 2024 before being eliminated by France on penalties.