Arsenal handed boost in signing Portuguese star

Arsenal have been handed a boost in signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha during the January transfer window.

The Portuguese was on his way to Bayern Munich during the summer for £55m, but a deal broke down at the last hurdle.

Palhinha underwent a medical and his photoshoot with Bayern, but the Cottagers were unable to land a replacement.

As a result, he was recalled on deadline day. Palhinha signed a new deal thereafter but he is expected to leave the club very soon.

Bayern have been fancied to return for him, but reports now claim that they have cooled their pursuit of the former Sporting man.

This should be a boost for the Gunners, who recently joined the race for him with the uncertainty over Thomas Partey's future.

The Ghanaian has been linked with Serie A and Saudi Arabian clubs and he could leave in January if a replacement is signed.

Palhinha would be a solid acquisition for the Gunners. He is one of the best tacklers in the Premier League at the moment.