Arsenal were seriously working on a move to bring Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich. The Gunners want to rebuild their midfield with strong, smart players. Palhinha is one of the best in Europe at winning tackles and protecting the defense. He also has experience in the Premier League with Fulham, where he was very consistent. Arsenal saw him as a perfect fit. Talks were held. But in the end, the move did not happen.
Joao Palhinha and Arsenal links-
According to top Journalists, Arsenal approached Bayern before the Club World Cup in the US.
Talks were real. Arsenal were not just exploring, they were planning a proper deal. Palhinha had just finished a tough season in Germany. He didn’t get many minutes. Still, Bayern were not eager to let him go unless the price was right.
Arsenal reportedly wanted to offer around £22–25 million. Bayern, who signed him from Fulham for £48.6 million a year ago, wanted closer to £30 million. No official bid was submitted. But both sides knew the numbers. The move fell through due to budget reasons and timing.
Arsenal have already made big signings this window like Zubimendi, Kepa, Gyokeres, Norgaard, Madueke, and Mosquera. They’re spending carefully now.
What Does it Mean for Arsenal and Joao Palhinha?
For Joao Palhinha: The move could have changed his career. At 28, he needs regular games. In England, he was solid with Fulham. Arsenal would’ve offered him minutes, a clear role, and a shot at trophies. Palhinha is tough, experienced, and reads the game well. He would have fit into Mikel Arteta’s pressing system.
For Arsenal: This was about balance and control in midfield. Palhinha would’ve played the deeper role. That would free up players like Zubimendi and Odegaard to attack more. He also knows the Premier League so no adjustment period needed. His presence could have helped Arsenal win tight matches and protect leads. But since the deal failed, Arsenal might now explore other midfielders possibly Onana, Neves.
Bayern Stance :
Bayern Munich are not in a hurry to sell Joao Palhinha. He still has three years left on his contract. The German club feel he deserves more time to adapt. His first season in Germany was not great mostly due to injuries and rotation. But Bayern believe he can bounce back. They don’t want to lose him unless the money makes sense. £30 million is their asking price, and they won’t go lower. They are happy to keep him, even if he’s not a regular starter right now. If a better offer comes later in the window, they might reconsider.
Conclusion
Arsenal were in serious talks with Bayern to sign Joao Palhinha. The deal didn’t go through, but it showed how much Arteta values balance in midfield. Palhinha remains a strong option who is tough, experienced, and ready. Arsenal’s midfield revamp continues. And fans can expect more smart moves before the window shuts.
Author’s Opinion-
This was a smart target from Arsenal. They need a player like Palhinha to replace the old role of Xhaka at Arsenal. He is not stylish wit his game, but he is effective. The price Bayern asked around £30 million was fair for his quality. It’s a shame the deal did not happen. But Arsenal still have time to find a similar profile. Palhinha would’ve made the midfield stronger and deeper.
Arteta is building a team that plays beautiful football but also fights for every ball. Palhinha fits that vision. Maybe this isn’t over yet if Bayern soften their stance, Arsenal might return. If not, Arsenal must look elsewhere, but the plan to get a defensive midfielder is the right one.
It would be Interesting to see what happens between Palhinha and Bayern? Will Arsenal look towards another Midfield Signing?
Share your opinion in the comments below…
As featured on GoonerNews.com
