Fulham boss Marco Silva sure of finding Joao Palhinha replacement before transfer window closes

By SABC Sport
14th August 2024

Fulham manager Marco Silva has confirmed that the club will bring in a replacement for Joao Palhinha during the final weeks of the transfer window.

The Portuguese midfielder, Palhinha, made a high-profile move to Bayern Munich last month for a reported fee of £42.3 million, with an additional £4.2 million in potential add-ons.

While Silva acknowledged that both Sasa Lukic and Harrison Reed are capable of filling the defensive midfield role, he emphasized that Fulham is actively seeking to bolster that position before the transfer window closes on August 30.

Speaking ahead of Fulham's Premier League opener against Manchester United on Friday night, Silva said, "We are going to sign a player."

He added, "We are fortunate to have Sasa Lukic and Harrison Reed who can step into that position, but we are still looking to bring in someone new."

Silva expressed a preference for having all necessary players in place during pre-season, but recognized the challenges of the Premier League, both on and off the pitch, which sometimes require patience.

"The Premier League is demanding, and we need to be patient at times," Silva explained. "The most important thing is that we are clear about our needs. The board is working hard, and we're all collaborating to secure the players we require."

Fulham recorded a memorable 2-1 victory at Old Trafford in February, with Alex Iwobi scoring a late winner. In the return match at Craven Cottage, however, United's captain Bruno Fernandes secured the win for Erik ten Hag's side. Silva remains determined to make it tough for Manchester United again.

"They know what we're capable of when we face them," Silva said. "If we can replicate the performances of the last two seasons, I'll be satisfied as a manager."

He also highlighted the importance of containing Bruno Fernandes, describing the United captain as a pivotal player with the ability to influence the game at any moment.

"Bruno Fernandes is a top player - crucial for them," Silva noted. "He's their captain, and he has the tactical awareness and quality to decide the game at any moment. We need to be mindful of his impact."

This summer has seen significant departures from Fulham, including Tosin Adarabioyo, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Willian, Tim Ream, and Palhinha.

Following the club-record signing of Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal, Silva believes the squad still needs further reinforcement ahead of the 2024-25 season.

"Our squad is far from complete," Silva admitted. "We've lost key players like Tosin, Tim Ream, Bobby, Joao, and Willian - players who were crucial for us. We need to rebuild, just as we did last season after losing Aleksandar Mitrovic."

Silva also confirmed that there are no new injury concerns ahead of Friday's clash against Manchester United.