Newcastle United has identified Joao Palhinha, a 31-year-old midfielder, as a target for their upcoming transfer window. The Portuguese player is also attracting interest from Aston Villa and Benfica.
Following the exits of Bruno Guimarães to Arsenal and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham, Newcastle is seeking to bolster its midfield with experienced players. Reports from Sky Sports suggest that Palhinha is viewed as a highly suitable option.
Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Benfica Compete for Joao Palhinha
Aston Villa is also pursuing the Portuguese midfielder. The club has been in discussions with Bayern Munich for some time but has yet to finalize an agreement.
As both Premier League clubs vie for Palhinha, they are facing competition from Benfica for the Bayern midfielder’s signature.
Bayern Munich acknowledges the need to resolve Palhinha’s situation promptly; however, an agreement has not yet been reached. Aston Villa and Benfica are aiming to sign the player on loan with an option to buy.
Newcastle has had a productive summer, generating €275 million through the sales of Guimarães and Tonali, along with Anthony Gordon’s transfer to Barcelona for €80 million.
Joao Palhinha’s Previous Loan at Tottenham
Last season, Palhinha was loaned to Tottenham, where he performed well. Bayern is asking for €40 million for a permanent transfer, but Spurs opted against purchasing him.
Palhinha is contracted with Bayern Munich until the summer of 2028. He was transferred to the German club in 2024 from Fulham for €51 million. His current market value stands at €15 million, according to Transfermarkt.
