He has accept to join Arsenal’: Premier League Manager confess that His £80m star midfielder have already told him his intention to join Arsenal in January despite different approach from London Rivals
Journalist Dean Jones has now potentially given Arsenal fans something to get excited about ahead of January.
Speaking on the Ranks FC podcast, Jones has been discussing the future of one £80m midfielder Arsenal are now being linked with.
Jones said that Fulham star Joao Palhinha is destined to leave the club, be it in January or in the summer.
Of course, Arsenal are now said to be very interested in Palhinha, something Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed.
And Jones’ comments would certainly bode well for his availability.
He said: “You know, Joao Palhinha is going to leave Fulham, whether that’s January or the summer, can’t be sure.
“I still think it’s likely to be the summer, but either way, it looks like they are going to need to bring somebody in.”
At 28-years-old, Arsenal’s interest in Palhinha has come as a bit of a surprise to many.
Perhaps the pursuit is an indication that Thomas Partey will be moving on – there’s simply not enough space for everyone.
And the interest would suggest that Declan Rice does have a future as a number eight.
Dean Jones says Arsenal-linked Joao Palhinha could leave Fulham in January
Although very hypothetical at this stage, Palhinha would be a very imposing figure in Arsenal’s midfield.
The Portugal international was arguably the best defensive midfielder in the league last season when focusing on the ‘dirty work’.
And if the spine to Mikel Arteta’s team was already looking more robust this season, it could be about to improve further.
It’s clear that Arteta is determined to make this Arsenal side harder to beat.
And whilst very high price tags are being mentioned for Palhinha, Arsenal may believe they can achieve a better deal for a player thought to be itching to leave.
Jones certainly thinks Palhinha will be on the move before next season, and a summer transfer may even suit Arsenal more than one in January.
The club are expected to be quiet in their business next month, even if they are now linked to an exceptional £35m player in the Bundesliga.
