Fulham star gives final verdict on future amid Liverpool, Arsenal links; Klopp will be disappointed

Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha has broken the silence on his future after being heavily linked with moves to Liverpool and Arsenal.

The Portugal international has been one of the Cottagers’ most impressive players in a successful season, with Marco Silva’s side finishing in 10th place.

Now, Fulham will no doubt be desperate to keep hold of their best players to build on their successful campaign. And, Palhinha certainly fits into that category.

This season, the 27-year-old has made 35 Premier League appearances, scoring three goals in the process.

Generally operating as a defensive midfielder, Palhinha’s best attributes are at breaking up opposition attacks. He is also excellent with the ball at his feet, with a pass success rate of 83%.

As mentioned, his fine performances have caught the attention of Liverpool and Arsenal in particular. Although, there are plenty of other teams that have registered an interest in him, too.

Indeed, Aston Villa and West Ham are also admirers of Palhinha, so there is a real fear among Fulham fans that they could lose their star man.

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Palhinha rules out Fulham departure

However, in a recent interview, Palhinha declared that he is ‘happy’ at Fulham. This will come as a blow to teams chasing his signature – but as a major boost to Cottager fans.

In an interview with Eleven Sports, the midfielder was asked whether he would consider re-joining his former club Sporting Lisbon.

In response, he said: “You know the affection I have for Sporting. It’s something that has always marked me and will always mark me.

“Right now I’m very happy here [at Fulham] and I want to stay here. I think [the Premier League]suits my football.”

Now, Liverpool and Arsenal will have to look elsewhere for midfield recruits.

Alexis Mac Allister is one option Jurgen Klopp undoubtedly looking into. Indeed, the Brighton star’s representatives have reportedly flown to England to finalise the switch to Anfield.

As for Arsenal, they are destined to part ways with Granit Xhaka, who looks set to join Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

His departure will leave a void in Mikel Arteta’s midfield. So, the Gunners are currently on the hunt for a long-term replacement.

As it stands, Arsenal remain firmly in the race to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice. Although, they face stiff competition from German giants Bayern Munich.

What seems almost certain, though, is that Palhinha won’t be joining Liverpool or Arsenal this summer, if his latest interview is anything to go by.

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