Newcastle United have now personally sent scouts to watch Joao Palhinha ahead of an ‘opening’ in the summer.
The Lowdown: Revelation
Palhinha has been nothing short of a revelation for Sporting Lisbon, especially over the last two seasons, in where he was a won the Portuguese league title last term, and this campaign, he has already helped Sporting win the League Cup and Super Cup, while also being instrumental in guiding them out of their UEFA Champions League group.
Likened to ‘Hercules’ by teammate Jovane Cabral, who is currently on loan at Lazio, the six-foot-three powerhouse is sure to have plenty of admirers in the summer, and it looks as if the St. James’ Park faithful are certainly one of them.
The Latest: Scouts sent
As per Jornal de Noticias (via Sport Witness), the North East club are just one of a number who are following Palhinha, and have even been personally sending scouts to watch him for his last few games.
His entourage already had approaches for his signature in the January transfer window, and there is reportedly an ‘opening’ for his departure, with Sporting wanting at least €30m (£25m) to part ways.
The Verdict: Get it done
Given his stature and previous success performing at the highest level, Palhinha would be a perfect addition to the Premier League, none more so than for the new mega-rich Tynesiders.
Having arrived last month, fellow Portuguese speaker Bruno Guimaraes will surely be licking his lips at the prospect of forming a formidable partnership in the heart of midfield with Palhinha, who at 26 years of age, is just about to enter his prime.
Of course, the Magpies need to avoid relegation first, but if they do, the Portugal international should be top of their shopping list.
In other news, find out what ‘exciting’ transfer claim Lee Ryder has dropped here!
