Arsenal Targeted Harry Kanes Bayern Teammate Joao Palhinha Before Sealing Zubimendi Deal

Arsenal made a surprise move for Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich teammate Joao Palhinha before finalizing a £60 million deal for Martin Zubimendi. Bayern were reportedly open to selling Palhinha for £26 million, but talks fell through. Arsenal have since added Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga to strengthen their squad.

As the summer transfer window heats up, Arsenal's ambitious recruitment drive has revealed an unexpected twist. Before finalising the £60 million signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, the Gunners reportedly made a surprise attempt to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha. According to Bild, talks were held with Bayern before the Club World Cup, but a deal couldn’t be reached.

Palhinha, who joined Bayern from Fulham in 2024 for £48 million, endured a difficult first season in the Bundesliga. Despite winning the league title, he made only seven league starts and missed two months due to injury. Bayern were open to selling him for around £26 million, ready to take a significant financial loss on the 30-year-old Portuguese star. However, Arsenal failed to strike an agreement with the German champions.

While the pursuit of Palhinha didn’t materialise, Arsenal have already added depth to their squad with the arrivals of Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. The club is also reportedly working on deals for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke and Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres. With these reinforcements, Mikel Arteta is clearly aiming to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts in the 2025-26 season.