Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Alex Young

Joao Palhinha confirms ‘dream’ £17m Fulham transfer ahead of medical

Incoming: Joao Palhinha

(Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha has confirmed his imminent move to Fulham.

The 26-year-old, who was linked with other Premier League clubs earlier in the window, is set to become Fulham's first summer signing in a deal worth a reported £17million.

Fulham boss Marco Silva made defensive midfield a key area to strengthen and now Palhinha is flying into London to complete the move, which he has described as a "dream".

“Playing in the Premier League is a dream that I will fulfil," he told RTP, via Sport Witness. "Now I’m looking for success in the best league in the world and I want to prove my worth. I can only promise that I will do my best."

He added: "I was convinced by the project and the persistence. Marco Silva loved me a lot and it was fundamental because he spoke to me more than once.

"I spoke to several people who passed through the club and they all gave me good information. I’m sure it will be good for me."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.