Former Wolves target Joao Palhinha has reportedly been impressing for his new club Fulham.
The Cottagers took on Portuguese side Estoril recently, and ran out 3-1 winners with the team showing glimpses of quality despite a number on interruptions.
Marco Silva’s side are looking to head into the 2022/23 Premier League season in the best possible shape, as they bid to stay in the division come May next year.
Fulham have already made a number of signings, the latest being Manor Solomon. And defender Kevin Mbabu is expected to be announced imminently.
Earlier in the window, Fulham signed Palhinha.
The midfielder was heavily linked with Wolves for weeks, and it had seems as though Wanderers would finally get their man. The club had been interested in Palhinha for a number of windows previously.
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But in the end, Wolves passed up the chance to sign him, and Palhinha headed to Craven Cottage. It’s thought he doubled his wages.
It is thought a move was hinging on whether the club sold Ruben Neves.
Palhinha did actually confirm in an interview with Mais Futebol recently that there was never an official approach from Wanderers. In the end, Fulham completed a move for around £20 million (Sky Sports).
Wolves fans wondering how he’s fared so far may be concerned to know that he has impressed.
The Athletic noted how his style complemented that of Harrison Reed, and that he ‘showed a surprise fleetness of foot with his recoveries as well as proving adept at breaking up play’.
He also scored his first goal smashing home a low drive from the edge of the penalty area.
Goalscoring is not what he is most known for, but it was an excellent hit from the former Sporting CP man.
Time will tell if Palhinha will prove to be one that got away for Wolves, as he impresses for Fulham
So Palhinha is already making an impression for Fulham.
A search of his name on social media will reveal that many Cottagers fans are very much liking what they’re seeing from the enforcer in pre-season.
Wolves didn’t move for Palhinha in the end, despite all the speculation.
It remains to be seen if he will end up being a regret.
The fact Wolves did not move to sign him may well suggest that Neves is not going anywhere this summer.