By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

5th Sep, 2023 | 5:00pm

Sources: Update on Man United signing Palhinha in January

Man United are unlikely to go in for Fulham star Joao Palhinha in January despite his failed Bayern Munich move, sources have told Football Insider.

Football Insider revealed on Monday (4 September) that United were very keen to land Palhinha, 28, in the summer window.

But Erik ten Hag’s side did not have the budget to meet Fulham’s mammoth £90million asking price and instead signed long-term target Sofyan Amrabat on a loan-to-buy basis.

Palhinha saw a move to German giants Bayern Munich fall through at the eleventh hour – meaning he will remain a Fulham player until January at least.

And although United are unlikely to pursue a move for the Portugal international in the winter window, player sales could make a fresh move possible.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Ten Hag is a “big fan” of the ex-Sporting CP star and “would have loved” to bring him to Old Trafford.

Palhinha has featured for Fulham this season but missed their loss against Man City on Saturday (2 September) following the collapse of his Bayern move.

Marco Silva must now reintegrate the star man into his squad ahead of another possible raid in January.

Amrabat has been given the number four shirt by Man United after his arrival on an initial loan from Italian side Fiorentina.

According to Sky Sports (2 September), Man United will pay an £8.5million loan fee for the 27-year-old and have the option to make the transfer permanent for £21.4million.

Man United’s midfield has been highlighted by fans and pundits alike as a cause for concern after their opening four games of the season, despite the big-money signing of Mason Mount.

The Red Devils have picked up six points from their opening four games.

In other news, Kieran Maguire reveals the real reason Man United signed Amrabat on loan.