Aston Villa enters talks with Bayern Munich for Joao Palhinha

Aston Villa has confirmed it is in negotiations with Bayern Munich to sign Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha. Villa's sporting director, Damian Vidagany, stated that the club needs midfield reinforcement following Amadou Onana's season-ending injury.

While discussions are ongoing, no agreement has yet been reached. A primary sticking point is the transfer structure: Villa is reportedly interested in a loan deal with an option to buy, whereas Bayern Munich prefers a permanent sale. Bayern has reportedly set an asking price of approximately €25 million (£21 million) for the 31-year-old, who spent the previous season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur.

Newcastle United has also been linked with Palhinha as they look to bolster their midfield following the departures of Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali. Other clubs, including Benfica, have also been noted as having an interest in the player.