Paul Ince has urged Manchester United to ‘hijack’ Bayern Munich’s move for Fulham star Joao Palhinha and believes the midfielder could be the ideal long-term replacement for Casemiro.
Palhinha appeared on the verge of a switch to Bayern 12 months ago before the proposed £55million transfer deal collapsed in the final few hours of summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old would go on sign a contract extension with Fulham, tying him to Craven Cottage until 2028, but rumours are once again swirling that he could be set for a big-money switch to the Allianz Arena.
Fulham are prepared to let Palhinha leave but are reportedly demanding a fee of £90million for the sought-after Portugal international from potential suitors.
However, it’s understood Fulham have knocked back Bayern’s two opening offers for Palhinha and the likes of United and Barcelona are keeping close tabs on the situation, ready to pounce.
Legendary ex-United and England midfielder Ince is an avid admirer of Palhinha and feels the former Sporting man could be the missing piece of the puzzle in Erik ten Hag’s midfield.
‘Joao Palhinha could replace Casemiro next season, without a doubt,’ Ince told Bet365 while assessing United’s transfer targets for the summer.
‘Obviously he was going to go to Bayern Munich last summer which fell through on deadline day, but we know Fulham are prepared to sell with Bayern now back in for him.
’But I think if you look at the way he plays, I think he’s perfect for Manchester United. He gets about the park, he can pass, he can tackle, he’s strong.’
‘He’s got a good size about him. He’s got everything you need to be a success at Manchester United and I hope they hijack a move.’
Ince is, though, unsure which players could play alongside Palhinha in United’s engine room, with Ten Hag’s midfield disjointed and found wanting for large parts of last season.
’The only question is about the players you put alongside him. That’s always the toughest thing because I think to be a good player, you’ve got to play with good players,’ the ex-England captain added.
‘All the players have to be aligned in what the objective is that season. I don’t think that’s been the case with Manchester United.
‘But I think he’s definitely the type of player that Manchester United should be looking at.’
Another player linked with United this summer is Everton youngster Jarrad Branthwaite, who enjoyed an eye-catching breakout season at the heart of Sean Dyche’s defence last term.
Branthwaite was rewarded with his first call-up to the senior England team back in March but missed out on the Three Lions’ final 26-man party for Euro 2024, as Gareth Southgate trimmed his squad for the tournament.
Ince has been impressed with Branthwaite, though believes the Red Devils may be wise to pursue a move for a more experienced player at the back.
‘Jarrad Branthwaite has had a steady season in a team that struggled against relegation in Everton, and we’re talking about a player that came from Carlisle,’ he added.
‘He’s made great strides in such a short space of time so I think a move to Manchester United is a possibility, the problem is that United have signed players in the past that have had one good season.
‘It’s not that easy and he’s got a lot to learn but he’s got plenty of pace, I like the way he plays, he’s aggressive and yeah he’s another potential signing.
’People have disagreed with [Gareth] Southgate for not putting him in the squad and I don’t think he’s ready for that yet, but if you’re looking to rebuild like they are at Manchester United, he is someone to look at.
‘Having said that, what people don’t understand is that it’s tough to play for Manchester United. Mentally tough. You don’t understand what it takes to be a Manchester United player.
‘Some players have been there, who aren’t bad players, who just can’t deal with the atmosphere and the environment of playing for Manchester United and what the fans expect week in and week out.’
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