Aston Villa are reportedly preparing to advance their pursuit of Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha.
Portuguese outlet A Bola reports that Villa are considering a loan deal which would include an option to buy the 31-year-old permanently.
Unai Emery’s side were already assessing Palhinha after Youri Tielemans completed his £35million transfer to Manchester United. The latest update suggests that interest could now develop into negotiations.
No agreement with Bayern or Palhinha has yet been reported. Benfica also remain in contention and could offer the midfielder an opportunity to return to Portugal.
Palhinha spent last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, but the north London club decided not to activate their purchase option.
Palhinha would strengthen depleted Villa midfield
Villa’s need for another defensive midfielder has increased following Tielemans’ departure and Amadou Onana’s serious knee injury.
Johan Manzambi is expected to complete a club-record move from Freiburg, but the Switzerland international offers a more mobile and progressive midfield profile.
Palhinha would provide Premier League experience, defensive discipline and greater protection for Emery’s back line. He previously established himself in England with Fulham before joining Bayern in 2024.
As Read Aston Villa reported when the interest first emerged, Bayern are believed to value the Portugal international at around €25million.
A loan would allow Villa to assess Palhinha before committing to that permanent fee. His wages and Benfica’s interest may still complicate negotiations.
Villa have not submitted a confirmed offer, but their reported willingness to advance talks suggests Palhinha has become a serious option for Emery’s rebuilt midfield.
