Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha reportedly views Barcelona as his 'dream club' and would reject interest from elsewhere in order to move to Camp Nou if given the opportunity.
The Portugal international came close to joining Bayern Munich in the final moments of the summer transfer window, only for his switch to the Bundesliga giants to break down at the final moment.
Palhinha had already undergone the first part of his medical with Bayern before Fulham pulled the plug on a deal, as Marco Silva's side were unable to bring in a replacement.
Fulham are said to have made a late approach for Manchester United's Scott McTominay but were informed that the Scotland international would not be allowed to depart.
Palhinha has overcome the setback to again contribute impressively for Silva's side this season, managing two goals and one assist in 21 appearances in all competitions.
The 28-year-old's future is again the subject of speculation, and he told Sky Sports News earlier this week that he will leave Fulham "someday".
"I've always said that I feel the love that the supporters have for me," Palhinha said ahead of his side's EFL Cup semi-final first leg with Liverpool.
"I know that someday I will leave Fulham. I want to give everything. I'm always 100% professional here, and I will do my job every time that I play for Fulham.
"This is why I always wanted to come here: to come to the best league in the world. My family looked for the best league for my game and where I fit better.
"It's something that is important for me and for the club, because they've never won this cup. When you win a title — it can be Carabao [Cup], can be FA Cup - every title is important."
According to Sport, Palhinha's first-choice destination in terms of a next club would be Barcelona, with the Catalan outfit said to be interested in the Portuguese's services.
However, Palhinha signed a new deal with Fulham last September, which runs until June 2028, with the option of an additional 12 months, and Barcelona are not currently in a position to pay a huge fee due to their financial issues.
The midfielder is allegedly attracted by a move to Camp Nou for 'personal and sporting reasons', although Fulham are likely to demand a transfer fee of at least £50m.
Palhinha made the move to Craven Cottage from Sporting Lisbon in the summer of 2022, and he has represented his current side on 61 occasions, scoring six goals and registering one assist. body check tags ::
