Transfer Centre

Fulham identify Andre as Joao Palhinha replacement?

By Ben Sully | 30 November 2023

Fulham reportedly identify Fluminense's Andre as a potential replacement for Joao Palhinha, who continues to be linked with Bayern Munich.

Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Fluminense midfielder Andre.

The Cottagers are looking to sign a new defensive midfielder, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Joao Palhinha.

He was on the verge of completing a summer move to Bayern Munich before the deal fell through on the final day of the window.

Although Palhinha has subsequently signed a new contract extension until 2028, he continues to be linked with a transfer to the German champions.

The 28-year-old has admitted that he is unsure what the future holds, raising the possibility that he could leave the club in the January transfer window.

Fulham's Joao Palhinha celebrates scoring their second goal on August 26, 2023 © Reuters

With Fulham bracing themselves for Palhinha's departure, they are already working on plans to secure his replacement.

According to Sky Sports News, the West London club are looking to agree a deal to sign Fluminense's Andre in the new year.

The report claims that Fulham chief executive Alistair Mackinstosh recently flew out to Brazil to hold talks over a potential deal.

Liverpool were believed to be considering a move for Andre, but their interest appears to have cooled off in recent weeks.

Fluminense's Andre pictured after sustaining an injury August 31, 2023 © Reuters

However, Fulham could still face Premier League competition, as Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have all been linked with the Brazilian's signature.

Andre has made 58 competitive appearances for Fluminense in 2023, helping the club win the Copa Libertadores for the first time in their history.

Despite being under contract until December 2026, the Brazil international is widely expected to complete a transfer to Europe in January.

Fluminense still have two games to play in their domestic season, before they travel to Saudi Arabia for the 2023 Club World Cup.

Fulham, meanwhile, are also scouring the market for further reinforcements with the Cottagers keen to bring in a new centre-back and a striker.