Arsenal & Tottenham learn Bayern Munich's cut-price valuation of forgotten ex-Premier League midfield destroyer

According to Christian Falk, Palhinha may be on the way out of the Allianz Arena for a fraction of the €56 million (£48m/$65m) price Bayern paid Fulham for his services last summer. Having made just seven Bundesliga starts in a disappointing debut campaign, the report states that the 30-year-old could depart the German champions for somewhere between €25m (£22m) to €30m (£26m) this summer.

Sensational reports revealed that Arsenal made an attempt to sign Palhinha prior to the Club World Cup, which did not come off. The Gunners have since signed Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard in midfield so it is unknown whether they are planning a return for the Portugal international, while rivals Tottenham Hotspur reportedly view him as a potential replacement for Yves Bissouma and may make a move of their own.

Palhinha said of the speculation: "I have a contract for three more years, so I’ll report for duty on July 29, which is when we start this pre-season. As I’ve said several times, and it’s been a recurring question, I have three more years on my contract.

"I don’t know what will happen, but I’m at a great club, as I’ve always said. Obviously, it hasn’t been an easy year, but as soon as the season starts, I’m very motivated to prove my worth once again at a very special club, a huge club."

The player may yet be convinced by a potential return to England, particularly if one of the north London giants come calling. Palhinha was one of the top defensive midfielders stats-wise in Europe during his time at Fulham, leading all players in the top-five leagues for tackles in both of his two seasons at Craven Cottage. His qualities would no doubt be welcomed back in the Premier League if a move were to materialise.