According to reports in Portugal, Joao Palhinha is a potential target for West Ham. The Hammers have asked about Palhinha’s availability, according to Record.
Palhinha currently plays for Sporting CP in the Portuguese top-flight. However, he is on loan at SC Braga until summer 2020, which could block West Ham’s hopes of signing him.
The 24-year-old has come through the ranks at Sporting Lisbon but has only played 18 times for their first-team. He has had three loan spells away from the Portuguese capital; with Moreirense, Belenenses and Braga.
Last season, Palhinha played 32 games for Braga, scoring two and providing two assists. This is what caught West Ham’s eye as scouts continue to monitor the Portuguese league.
West Ham have made an enquiry but it remains to be seen whether this will be followed with a bid. Braga also have the first refusal on the former Portugal U21 midfielder.
Joao Palhinha to complete the midfield jigsaw?
West Ham ideally need one more central midfielder to complete their ranks. After signing Pablo Fornals, the Irons need a more defensive-minded midfielder to compete with Declan Rice for the holding midfield role.
Several options have been touted, including Gary Medel, Isaac Hayden and Charles Aranguiz. But Palhinha is a new name on West Ham’s summer wishlist.
Palhinha would be a risk considering he has only ever played in the Portuguese leagues. With just 78 games to his name in the Portuguese top division, he has not proven himself for long enough to guarantee success.
But West Ham have done some extensive scouting in Portugal. The Hammers will be aware of the midfielder’s ability and he might be a low-cost alternative to some other targets.
Receive a digest of our best West Ham content each week direct to your mailbox
