Joao Palhinha’s brother claims Fulham only ‘postponed’ rather than ‘killed’ midfielder’s dream move to Bayern after deadline-day deal fell through

Joao Palhinha’s brother has suggested that Fulham have merely ‘postponed’ the midfielder’s move to Bayern Munich.

The Portugal international traveled to Germany in the closing stages of the summer transfer window to seal a £55 million transfer to the Bundesliga giants.

However, Fulham were unable to find a suitable replacement before the German window closed at 5pm on Friday and they canceled the deal.

Palhinha was scheduled to undergo medical treatment and participate in media duties in Bavaria before being recalled to London.

In an Instagram post, Palhinha’s brother Goncalo said, “What about Munich? They didn’t kill the dream, they just postponed it.

Words of appreciation, recognition and thanks to the entire @fcbayern structure.

“If we already knew how big the club was, the bigger it will be after we leave it, regardless of what happened.

“The respect and affection of the people of the Bavarian structure who accompanied us characterized us by the difference in respect, honesty and professionalism.”

Palhinha was not involved in the 5-1 defeat against Manchester City for Fulham on Saturday.

Despite his desperation to complete the move to Bayern, he will now stay with the Cottagers at least until January.

West Ham were also interested in signing the 28-year-old earlier this summer, and Marco Silva believes his compatriot will need support when he returns after the international break.

“It was definitely a tough day for him, probably one of the toughest days of his life,” said the Fuham boss after the defeat at the Etihad.

“Last season he had a fantastic season and he is always a player who gives 100% for the shirt, but he had a great opportunity to go to one of the biggest clubs in the world and he was very close.

“You can imagine the impact that has on a footballer when things like this happen.

Palhinha was absent on Saturday due to Fulham’s 5-1 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium

Fulham boss Marco Silva said it was a ‘tough day’ for his compatriot as Bayern transfer fell through

Fulham sold last season’s top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal earlier this summer

“He needs the support of all of us: the coaching staff, our fans and his teammates.”

Palhinha was one of Fulham’s standouts last season as they finished impressively 10th in the Premier League.

Several of their players were in demand throughout the transfer window, with top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic completing a £46 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Midfielder Palhinha has remained in West London for the time being, but his brother’s statement suggests this can only be so for now.