João Palhinha picked up a training knock which caused concern at Bayern Munich as Aston Villa continue to consider a move for the Portugal midfielder.
Palhinha went down in pain following a challenge from team-mate Kim Min-jae during an intense pre-season session.
The 31-year-old received treatment after suffering swelling around his left shin. However, he was able to complete the session and later cycled back to Bayern’s team hotel with the area taped.
There is currently no suggestion that Palhinha has suffered a serious injury or will require an extended recovery period.
João Palhinha training knock unlikely to affect Villa interest
The incident occurred when Kim attempted to block a shot during an 11-against-11 training match.
Kim immediately apologised, while Palhinha continued after receiving treatment, according to German newspaper BILD.
Villa remain interested in bringing the former Fulham midfielder back to the Premier League following his loan spell at Tottenham last season.
Unai Emery’s side would prefer an initial loan containing an option to buy. Bayern have instead pushed for a permanent transfer worth around €25million.
ReadAstonVilla previously reported that Villa were unwilling to meet Bayern’s valuation, leaving the proposed structure as the main obstacle.
Palhinha’s high salary could also complicate negotiations. Villa would likely need Bayern to contribute towards his wages or accept a lower permanent fee.
The latest training incident should not alter those discussions unless further medical examinations identify a more significant problem.
For now, the João Palhinha training knock appears to have been a brief scare rather than a setback capable of disrupting a potential transfer.
