Liverpool’s Midfield Target List Narrows After Injury to Joao Palhinha

With Jordan Henderson and Fabinho heading for the exit with moves to the Saudi Pro League near, Liverpool are weighing up moves for their replacements. It is imperative that at least one new midfielder be brought in, with the ideal scenario being to sign two, but it remains to be seen who will emerge as priority targets.

Fulham‘s Portuguese defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha has been touted as an option by reliable sources, with the 28-year-old first linked back in March. However, as his side’s pre-season preparations continued with a 3-2 win over Brentford in the US, Palhinha was struck down with a shoulder injury.

His shirt was fashioned into a makeshift sling by medical staff before he was replaced by Kevin Mbabu shortly before half-time. Later, he was seen leaving the Lincoln Financial Field in discomfort, with Fulham manager Marco Silva predicting a dislocated shoulder.

The extent of Palhinha’s injury is as yet unclear, but it is certainly not good news for the midfielder – and its timing could be decisive. Liverpool are unlikely to bring in an injured player this summer, as the emphasis will be on signing immediate starters in the wake of Henderson and Fabinho‘s moves.

What Does This Mean for Liverpool?

It is unclear whether Palhinha was considered as a viable target for Liverpool, as Fulham had already rejected a £45 million bid from West Ham and are claimed to value him at £80 million.

Regardless, the injury to Palhinha may have narrowed Liverpool’s list of midfield targets further, as they look to bring in replacements for Henderson and Fabinho this summer. With the emphasis on signing immediate starters, Liverpool are unlikely to bring in an injured player this summer, meaning that Palhinha may no longer be an option for the Reds.

Who Could Be Next on Liverpool’s List?

With Palhinha out of the picture, Liverpool may now turn their attention to other midfield targets this summer. A similar situation may have unfolded with Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone earlier in the summer, with a knee injury on duty with the France under-21s seeing speculation fade.

Liverpool have already been linked with a number of midfielders this summer, including Thiago Alcantara,