Arsenal made 'concrete' attempt to sign Joao Palhinha but PL rival could win transfer race

Arsenal reportedly made a concrete effort to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha before the Club World Cup. 

The Gunners were looking to sign a defensive midfielder with proven quality and Premier League experience and made an approach for the Portuguese midfielder. 

Despite struggling to make an impact last season under Vincent Kompany, Arsenal viewed him as a solid option because of his previous performances in the Premier League with Fulham. 

According to a report from Bild, the north London club had held 'concrete discussions' about the cost of a move for Palhinha. However, the two clubs were unable to reach an agreement. 

Palhinha joined Bayern for £48m last summer, but the German champions are willing to cut their losses and sell him for £26m. 

Arsenal have moved on from Palhinha 

The Gunners have bolstered their midfield areas by signing Martin Zubimendi, who last week completed a £60m move to the Emirates from Real Sociedad. 

Arsenal have also signed Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga, while the likes of Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera and Viktor Gyokeres are reportedly expected to arrive in the coming days. 

Palhinha started just seven games in the Bundesliga last season and was largely overlooked in the Club World Cup as well. Clearly, the 30-year-old is not in Kompany's first-team plans, but Arsenal are unlikely to reignite their interest in him. 

Tottenham hold talks to sign Palhinha 

Spurs are showing keen interest in Palhinha, and according to TBR Football, they have held a fresh round of talks with the Bayern midfielder. 

The report claims that Tottenham are ready to sell Yves Bissouma, and they see Palhinha as a perfect fit to replace the Malian international. 

Serie A giants Inter Milan are also interested in the former Sporting CP midfielder, but he has indicated a move back to London would appeal to him.