Joao Palhinha, a midfield player for Fulham, was approached by his agent in early December, and Liverpool is currently vying with rival Premier League teams for his services.

Despite his team’s stellar defensive record in the Premier League, Jurgen Klopp is well known for his need for a top-tier defensive midfield player.

The Reds lost their match against Manchester United, 0-0 at Anfield, although no team has given up less league goals than them in 2023–2024 with only 15 goals allowed.

However, Klopp’s strategies are still hampered by the inclusion of a natural defensive midfielder in the starting lineup.

Premier League fulham player Joao Palhinha

Liverpool is reportedly in competition with five other teams to sign Palhinha, according to Record in Portugal, following TEAMtalk’s early December story indicating that the Reds are among the teams to have “held conversations” with his agency.

Although Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich have long expressed interest, there are also reports that Manchester City is considering a move.

Palhinha might find it alluring to play for Pep Guardiola, but if he transferred to the Etihad, he would end up exactly like Kalvin Phillips.

Palhinha will never be able to replace Rodri, who is recognized as the world’s best defensive midfield player.

Portugal’s Joao Palhinha

The Portugal international, though, would be a surefire starter at Liverpool and might even lead them to the Premier League championship.

Although it would cost over €70 million (£60.2 million), signing the 28-year-old would significantly improve their title chances.

Arsenal’s ascent to the top of the standings was aided by their two-point loss to Manchester United, but Klopp’s team still has a chance to celebrate Christmas as league leaders when the Gunners visit Anfield this weekend.