Palhinha on track for Wolverhampton
João Palhinha is on track to complete a move to English Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Palhinha has been the source of much interest this summer, with Wolves battling with Sevilla and Real Betis to complete the signing of the Portuguese midfielder - but Wolves are set to win the race to secure his signature.
The 24-year old, currently on the books of Sporting CP after a successful spell at Braga, is expected to cost in the region of 14 million euros, valuable sums of money for Sporting as they look to strengthen their squad while also balancing the books.
However, although Palhinha is expected to join Wolverhampton Wanderers this window, there is a strong possibility that he will only join the club in, or after, September, as any sale before that date would ensure that Sporting would need to pay Braga 15% of the fee. A proposal is therefore in place, but nothing is expected until September unless Wolves increase their offer.
TVI24 report that Carlos Vinicius also remains a strong target for Wolverhampton Wanderers, a player that Nuno Espirito Santo appreciates and is extremely interested in, though the Brazilian will not be allowed to leave Benfica for any less than 60 million euros.
Palhinha spent the last two seasons on loan at Braga, and was an integral part of the squad, particularly in the most recent campaign. Despite failing to ever make a strong impact at Sporting, who have been his parent club since 2016, Palhinha has made a real name for himself as a highly competent defensive-minded central midfielder while at Braga.
He played all 180 minutes against Wolves this season in the Europa League group stage for Braga, and was particularly impressive in Braga’s 0-1 win over Wolves at Molineux in their first meeting, with his composure in and out of possession and his defensive discipline to shield the backline both major contributing factors in Braga managing to see out an impressive 1-0 victory.
A physical presence, Palhinha has proven himself to be accomplished in aeriel duels, which has proved a useful asset both for goalscoring and in defence.
Capable of playing centreback as well as in central and defensive midfield, Palhinha is a defensively intelligent footballer, with his positioning, awareness and tackling prowess ensuring he offers strong protection in front of his goalkeeper.
Palhinha is more than a defensive footballer, though, and offers good control in the middle of the park, possessing a very strong passing game that ensures he helps his side maintain control of the game. Additionally, he has shown a willingness to push forward when the opportunity presents itself, and isn’t afraid of taking on a long shot.
