Aston Villa have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of João Palhinha, with the Bayern Munich midfielder reportedly determined to complete a move to Villa Park.
Villa face significant competition for the Portugal international after Benfica stepped up their own attempt to bring him back to his homeland.
However, Palhinha’s preference could now work firmly in Unai Emery’s favour.
Sky Sports News reports that the 31-year-old is determined to play for Villa as negotiations with Bayern continue.
João Palhinha wants Aston Villa move
The update is particularly significant following the threat posed by Benfica.
Read Aston Villa reported on Wednesday morning that Benfica had agreed four-year terms with Palhinha, while the Portuguese club had also proposed a €15million fee plus another €5m in potential add-ons.
That appeared to place Villa in danger of missing out.
The latest Sky Sports update paints a considerably more encouraging picture.
Villa remain in negotiations with Bayern and are offering a season-long loan containing an option to buy.
The German champions have previously preferred a permanent transfer, which remains the biggest obstacle facing Emery’s side.
Palhinha, though, is said to be waiting for the clubs to reach a decision and wants the move to Villa Park despite interest from Benfica and Sporting CP.
Villa have already resumed talks after seeing their initial proposal rejected, while Newcastle United’s attempts to sign the midfielder are not currently expected to progress.
Emery’s need for another experienced midfield option has also increased following injuries within his squad.
Nothing has yet been agreed between Villa and Bayern.
But after Benfica’s move appeared to place the transfer in serious danger, Palhinha’s determination to join Villa could give Emery’s side an important advantage as negotiations continue.
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