Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea are all interested in the services of Fulham midfielder Joao Balenha this summer, according to reports in the Portuguese player’s home country. The combative 27-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season in the center of the park at Craven Cottage and his performances seem to have made a lasting impression on some of the Premier League’s Big Six.
Fulham paid around £20m to complete the signing of the Portugal international last summer from Sporting Lisbon and it proved to be a masterstroke for Marco Silva.
Balenha has been among the best midfielders in the Premier League this season and is now also recognized as one of the best imports from last summer’s transfer window.
However, it now looks like Fulham may now face a battle to retain Yenha in the 2023/24 campaign as interest from further afield begins to gather.
Portugal’s record says United, Liverpool and Chelsea are all considering a summer deal, meaning Fulham could prepare for offers when the market reopens.
The report also adds that Sporting will receive a 10 per cent profit should Fulham receive the money due to a clause included in his contract at Craven Cottage.
This means that if Fulham are somehow tempted to sell, they will demand a bonus to maximize their profits, even though Palhinha is linked to a long-term contract in west London.
The former sportsman has made a reputation for himself with his grueling challenges and impressive long-range shots.
Although he has already picked up 10 bookings this season in the Premier League – receiving a two-match ban – he has been at the heart of Fulham’s impressive season.
Balenha scored four goals for the Whites in all competitions, most recently in a 2–0 FA Cup win over Leeds when he volleyed into the top corner from distance.
He was also on target during the West London derby’s 3-2 win over Brentford earlier in the season before scoring in Fulham’s 2-1 win over Southampton on New Year’s Eve.
United appear to be in the market for a partner in crime for Casemiro as they seek to sign the promotion of Fred and Scott McTominay.
Erik ten Hag is yet to decide whether to land Marcel Sabitzer permanently after securing a loan deal in January with RB Leipzig.
Liverpool are also in the market for central midfielders and first target Jude Bellingham is unlikely to come cheap, meaning Jurgen Klopp may have to explore alternative targets.
Chelsea could prove to be a real threat to both United and Liverpool in a market where Todd Bohle looks to continue spending heavily.
Jorginho will need to be replaced in the summer window while Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante are yet to agree new contracts.
This means that the Blues may also be on the hunt for midfield reinforcements that could derail Manchester United and Liverpool’s transfer ambitions.
