Aston Villa have been given more time to work on a deal for João Palhinha. The midfielder is delaying his return to Bayern Munich as he waits for his future to be resolved.
The Premier League side have emerged as serious contenders for the Portugal international after deciding to strengthen Unai Emery’s midfield this summer. Also, reports in Portugal indicate they are preparing an offer.
According to Record, Palhinha has reached an agreement with Bayern Munich to report back later than originally planned. The 31-year-old is expected to remain in Portugal until the end of the week. Both player and club are aware he is no longer part of Vincent Kompany’s plans.
That should give interested clubs more time to work on a deal before he rejoins the Bundesliga champions.
Benfica remain in the picture after making Palhinha one of Marco Silva’s priority targets. However, Aston Villa are also pushing ahead. They’ve identified the former Fulham midfielder as a key option following changes to their midfield.
Champions League could help Aston Villa
Record adds that Aston Villa believe they have an important advantage in the race.
The newspaper explains those at Villa Park are aware Palhinha likes the idea of remaining in the Premier League. Furthermore, he is interested in playing Champions League football next season, which Unai Emery’s side can offer.
That is balanced by Benfica’s strongest argument, with the midfielder still open to returning to Portugal to be closer to his family.
Aston Villa are yet to submit their proposal, but with Palhinha’s Bayern return delayed and his future expected to be resolved soon, the Villans appear to be positioning themselves for the next stage of the transfer battle.
Key transfer points
- Tottenham decided against using €30m clause after loan
- Aston Villa would be able to get him for less than that
- Sporting and Benfica have both shown interest this summer
- Portuguese clubs can’t compete on wages
- Strong squad addition for Unai Emery
Crysencio Summerville | West Ham player’s agent trying to engineer interest from Aston Villa and Manchester Unitedhttps://t.co/RSUg573vc7 #avfc #mufc #whufc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) July 17, 2026
The post João Palhinha agrees delayed Bayern return as Aston Villa prepare offer appeared first on Sport Witness.