Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Vincent Kompany, Bayern Munich, Football, Transfers
Ryan Smart
Vincent Kompany has identified his first signing after taking over as manager of Bayern Munich, according to a new report.
The Belgian was seen by many as a surprise appointment when he took charge of the Bavarians last month, replacing previous boss Thomas Tuchel.
Bayern had previously seen offers turned down by Ralf Rangnick, Julian Nagelsmann and Xabi Alonso to take the top role at the Allianz Arena.
The German giants reportedly paid Kompany's former club Burnley a compensation fee of around £10.2 million, with the Clarets preparing for life back in the Championship after being relegated last season.
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It was claimed that Bayern were impressed by the passion Kompany showed in his interviews, and believe that his philosophy and style of play will suit the club's current players.
The Bavarians also made contact with his former Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, who is said to have provided the club with a positive reference.
Now, Kompany has reportedly identified his first summer transfer target to reinforce his style of play.
According to German outlet Abendzeitung, Bayern want to sign Fulham star Joao Palhinha this summer.
Palhinha almost signed for the former Bundesliga champions last summer on deadline day, but the move collapsed in the final hours of the window.
The Portugal international had been given permission to travel to Munich to have a medical, and even took photos in a Bayern shirt ready for his unveiling.
But Fulham were keen to keep their star man at Craven Cottage for another year, and he went on to have another successful season in the Premier League.
Abendzeitung claim that Palhinha has already held talks with Kompany over a potential move to Bayern this summer, with Fulham reportedly setting an asking price of £60 million to sell him back in January.
It has since been claimed that talks have now reached an 'advanced' stage, with a move nearing completion.
The Cottagers have been linked with a number of midfielders in recent weeks, including Arsenal's Emile Smith Rowe, while Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah - who can also play in midfield - is believed to be another target, as per The Telegraph.
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