Liverpool are reportedly considering whether to move for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha during the summer transfer window.
Despite impressing for Sporting Lisbon and establishing himself with Portugal, few Premier League sides made a sustained effort to sign Palhinha last summer.
Fulham eventually edged out long-term suitors Wolverhampton Wanderers to secure a deal for the defensive-minded player, the hope being that he would ensure that the club remain away from the relegation zone.
Instead, Palhinha has emerged as one of the signings of the summer, playing a key role in Fulham sitting in eighth spot and contention for European qualification.
In the absence of the 27-year-old over the past two matches, Fulham have looked a shadow of their normal selves, conceding three times in defeats to Brentford and Arsenal.
© Reuters
From one perspective, Palhinha's value to Fulham has substantially increased during his absence, and Marco Silva will be desperate to retain the services of his compatriot in the long term.
As far as potential suitors are concerned, however, Palhinha's influence has become clearer, theoretically strengthening the chances of offers being made at the end of the campaign.
According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool are ready to enter the race for Palhinha as they look to conduct a midfield rebuild.
Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are expected to depart on free transfers, while James Milner may also leave Anfield in the same circumstances at the end of his contract.
© Reuters
Liverpool have been heavily linked with a number of alternatives, including Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham and Wolverhampton Wanderers' Matheus Nunes.
Nevertheless, the need for a new enforcer may be deemed more necessary than a proactive player with the ball, with Palhinha fitting that particular criteria.
Fulham have allegedly placed a price tag on Palhinha in the region of £60m, treble what they paid Sporting last year, while the player still has over four years remaining on his contract at the West Londoners.
While Fulham are said to be determined to retain Palhinha's services for at least another season, much could depend on the size of any bids made and whether they qualify for Europe.
Darren Plant
