Done deal! Joao Palhinha has moved from Sporting to Fulham for £18m
(Picture: Getty Images)Fulham have completed the £18million signing of Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha.
The 26-year-old moves to Craven Cottage on a five-year deal with the option for an extra 12 months and becomes the first new signing ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Upon signing for the Cottagers, Palhinha said: “I’m very glad to be here. 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.”
Fulham co-owner Tony Khan added: “While other prominent clubs were aiming to secure his signature, we’re thrilled that Joao chose to come here and that he wants to play for Fulham under our great coach Marco Silva, and we believe that Joao will be a valuable addition to strengthen the squad to compete this season in the Premier League.”
The move for a top defensive midfield target should appease Fulham manager Marco Silva, who has reportedly been concerned about a lack of movement in the transfer market.
However, it is understood that Silva remains an integral part of the recruitment process which sees him working with owner Khan and chief executive Alistair Mackintosh on a host of potential new signings this summer.
Fulham have been frustrated in talks for Shakhtar Donetsk’s Manor Solomon, a deal which has been impacted by changes to FIFA regulations relating to the war in Ukraine.
Manchester United's Andreas Pereira has stalled on Fulham's offer with potential interest from clubs in Brazil to hijack that transfer.
Meanwhile, Fulham are also in talks with Arsenal over the signing of goalkeeper Bernd Leno.
