Aston Villa are preparing to challenge Benfica for the signing of Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha after identifying the Portugal international as a priority target this summer.
The Premier League club are expected to step up their interest following the departure of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and Amadou Onana's serious knee injury, leaving Unai Emery in need of reinforcements in midfield.
Villa planning loan approach
According to reports in Portugal, Aston Villa are preparing an initial proposal based on a season-long loan with an option to buy, rather than a permanent transfer.
Bayern Munich would ideally prefer to sell Palhinha outright to recover part of the €50 million they paid for him in 2024. However, the Bundesliga champions are also willing to consider another loan deal after the midfielder rejected permanent offers from Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Villa can offer Champions League football as well as the chance for Palhinha to remain in the Premier League, having spent last season on loan at Tottenham, where he made 45 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing two assists.
Benfica remain firmly in the race
Despite Villa's growing interest, Benfica have not given up hope of bringing Palhinha back to Portugal.
The 31-year-old is understood to be attracted by the prospect of returning closer to his family, while his strong relationship with Benfica manager Marco Silva is another factor working in the Lisbon club's favour after the pair previously worked together at Fulham.
Benfica are also exploring a loan with an option to buy, although matching Villa's financial package could prove difficult.
Key Points
- Aston Villa are preparing a loan offer for João Palhinha.
- Bayern Munich prefer a permanent sale but will consider another loan.
- Benfica remain in talks and hope to convince the midfielder to return to Portugal.
- Villa are looking for midfield reinforcements after losing Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana's injury.
- Palhinha rejected permanent offers from Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
What's next?
Bayern Munich return for pre-season training this week, with Palhinha's future expected to become clearer in the coming days. Aston Villa are preparing to formalise their interest, while Benfica remain optimistic that personal factors could persuade the Portuguese international to choose a return home instead of another Premier League move.
Where should João Palhinha play next season – Aston Villa or Benfica?
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