Aston Villa submit João Palhinha offer as Bayern Munich make stance clear

Aston Villa have stepped up their pursuit of João Palhinha, with the club reportedly submitting an opening offer to Bayern Munich for the Portugal international.

Villa have already confirmed their interest in the former Fulham midfielder, and fresh reports suggest negotiations are now gathering pace.

According to reports in Germany, Aston Villa have already reached an agreement on personal terms with Palhinha.

The Premier League side have now followed that up by submitting their first proposal to Bayern Munich.

The offer is understood to be a loan deal with an option to buy, although Bayern have rejected those terms as they prefer a permanent sale.

Despite that setback, Villa remain at the front of the race to sign the 31-year-old.

Palhinha appears increasingly likely to leave the Bundesliga champions before the transfer window closes.

Sporting director Max Eberl recently confirmed Bayern are prepared to part ways with the midfielder.

"We have communicated very openly that we have three players… whom we are very open to letting go."

He added that he does not see a long-term future for Palhinha at the Allianz Arena.

That public stance has strengthened Aston Villa's hopes of eventually reaching an agreement.

Villa's interest comes after sporting director Damian Vidagany confirmed talks are ongoing.

The Midlands club are searching for midfield reinforcements following Amadou Onana's long-term injury, with Unai Emery identifying Palhinha as a strong fit for his squad.

Although Bayern remain determined to negotiate a permanent transfer, Villa are expected to continue discussions as they look to find a compromise.

Aston Villa are expected to return with an improved proposal as negotiations continue. Bayern's willingness to sell gives Villa encouragement, although the structure of the deal remains the main obstacle before an agreement can be reached.