Liverpool want to beat Bayern to £60M midfield signing amid Xabi Alonso battle

Bayern Munich continue to show interest in Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha and are facing competition from the likes of Liverpool as they too get set to part ways with their manager, Thomas Tuchel.

Jurgen Klopp will vacate his role at Anfield at the end of the season with a period of transition incoming for those at Anfield.

Tuchel, a known advocate for Palhinha, left the club following a period of poor performance. Despite this, Bayern Munich remains intent on acquiring the 28-year-old Portuguese international, who is also sought after by Premier League giants including Arsenal and Chelsea.

Liverpool want Joao Palhinha: Transfer latest on second tussle with Bayern Munich

According to information provided by Football Insider's Peter O'Rourke, Bayern Munich is actively pursuing Fulham's midfielder, Joao Palhinha, positioning themselves as strong contenders alongside clubs such as Liverpool.

Despite the impending exit of their coach, Tuchel, Bayern Munich's interest in the 28-year-old Portuguese player remains unwavering. Tuchel, who is reported to have been a significant advocate for Palhinha, aiming to secure his transfer during the summer of 2023, is stepping down from his role at Bayern following a period of disappointing performances by the team.

This development comes despite his efforts being thwarted last minute by Fulham's refusal to release Palhinha.

A source close to the situation has indicated to Football Insider that Palhinha is still a primary target for Bayern Munich, suggesting a move could be forthcoming if the terms are favourable.

Fulham chairman more than ready to sell if "sensible offers" are received

Fulham's vice-chairman, Tony Khan, has openly stated the club's openness to considering "sensible offers" for Palhinha, acknowledging the substantial interest from other clubs.

Khan said live on talkSPORT, via the London Evening Standard: "He's a huge part of the core fold, and we love having him here and we want him part of the team as long as possible, we were very happy to extend his contract.

"If an offer came along and it made sense for everyone, I think that's something you have to consider with every player at the right time.

"We want to keep him and we have kept him. He's been staying with us and there's a lot of demand. There's now a huge market for Joao Palhinha. Now, eyes have opened."

After Bayern failed with a £60 million move to sign Palhinha previously, it will be interesting to see how much Fulham are able to generate from his exit. His contract only expires in 2028 and with several big clubs interested, the London-based club could still secure a tidy profit from his sale.

Palhinha has been a key player for Fulham this season, with 28 appearances, three goals, and one assist to his name.

Liverpool could deal double blow to Bayern Munich's plans for 2024

Reports suggest that Liverpool are leading the race to acquire Xabi Alonso's services at the end of the season as FSG continue their search for a new manager.

With a reunion with Alonso looking increasingly likely, Liverpool could further frustration Bayern Munich chiefs if they poach another target with the Reds said to be interested in signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha.

It's not something that will be decided anytime soon - at least from a Liverpool perspective. They're more focused on appointing a new manager which may or may not turn out to be Alonso. Time will tell.

Do Liverpool even need Palhinha? 

Wataru Endo has made a strong case since joining Liverpool that he should be the permanent no.6 at Anfield. Klopp leaving complicates things but whoever takes over in the summer will be keeping a close eye on the Japan international.

He's 31 so he's no spring chicken even though Klopp reckons he'll sign another Liverpool contract before long.

Palhinha is 28 so would offer a slightly more youthful option and real experience.