Fabrizio Romano comments suggest Arsenal could now be about to make transfer U-turn

Arsenal have been heavily linked with the likes of Joao Palhinha in recent months.

However, Fabrizio Romano has now suggested that the Gunners may be looking elsewhere for midfield reinforcements.

The transfer insider, writing on CaughtOffside, says he has heard that Arsenal are looking to sign younger players.

Palhinha has made a name for himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League playing outside of a traditional top-six club.

However, Fulham are believed to be playing hardball over his signature, with a price tag of around £60-65million being mooted.

In addition, Palhinha is 28 years old, and Romano seemed to suggest that Arsenal would like to sign someone younger and not yet in their prime.

‘Arsenal also appreciate the player’

At the same time, Romano reiterated that the Gunners remain keen on the Portugal international, as he’s a top player.

“From what I understand, there’s very good conditions for João Palhinha to leave in January. And sources at Bayern are very clear that they still like the player – but they won’t pay crazy money for him,” he said.

Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images

“Just to specify too that Bayern’s idea is not to invest something like €70m-€75m, they want a different price. So let’s see what’s going to happen.

“The deal is still there to be done and this is an open race because Arsenal also appreciate the player.

“As I told you, Arsenal are looking at midfield and their top target is Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa. But Villa are doing wonderful and so it will be very difficult for Arsenal to convince Villa to sell.

“That’s why there is a complete possibility for Arsenal to move onto other targets. Palhinha is appreciated but also very expensive, and so not an easy deal to do either.

“From what I’m hearing, another topic is that Arsenal want younger players. But let’s see what they can find on the market.”

Joao Palhinha would strengthen Arsenal but move looks difficult – TBR View

Palhinha would be a good shout for Arsenal for sure. We’ve all seen what the 28-year-old is capable of in the Premier League.

As Dean Jones said to GiveMeSport in June, “he has been one of the best defensive midfield players in the league over the course of the past season.”

Thomas Partey’s injury and fitness issues are sadly keeping him from consistently playing for Arsenal. With that in mind, Arteta seems eager to bolster his midfield ranks.

However, the Gunners would have to pay a hefty sum to sign Palhinha. And for that price, they may well feel they can sign someone just as good but five or six years younger.