Liverpool are very keen on signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha, according to Bild reporter Christian Falk.

Speaking to Caught Offside, the journalist claimed that Bayern Munich are worried that the Reds could swoop in and steal the Portuguese international from under their noses:

“Bayern heard that Liverpool are concretely interested in Joao Palhinha so things are getting complicated already ahead of the January transfer window.”

“They don’t have the money at the moment to commit to many big transfers and signing a centre-back is the priority. So, perhaps they might move away from the idea of signing him in the winter if Liverpool are also involved in the poker.”

Palhinha will be an expensive purchase for Liverpool

While Bayern did agree a fee of €65m (£56m) for the 28-year-old before the deal collapsed back in the summer, it is believed that Fulham could now demand between £70m and £80m.

Considering Palhinha‘s age, it would be a massive surprise if Liverpool were prepared to pay that much for the midfielder, even if he is seen as the perfect fix for a problem position.

Other Premier League teams are also interested in Palhinha

Last week, another journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Arsenal were seriously considering a bid for the Portuguese star.

Chelsea have been mentioned as another possible suitor too, but a lot will depend on who is prepared to pay Palhinha’s asking price.

Based on Falk’s information, it appears that the chances of the player leaving England for Bayern Munich are now dwindling, especially due to the number of Premier League teams involved.

We shall have to wait and see whether Liverpool do step up their interest in Palhinha over the coming days and weeks.

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