SL Benfica have initiated discussions with Bayern Munich regarding a potential permanent transfer for midfielder João Palhinha, according to reports from Bild. The Portuguese club are reportedly prepared to submit a bid in the region of €25 million, a figure that would prompt Bayern to consider a sale.
Negotiations are not without complications, however, with Palhinha’s current salary presenting a significant hurdle. The 29-year-old earns approximately €8.5 million per year, and Benfica are currently assessing whether they can meet those demands alongside the overall cost of the transfer. The total financial package required to secure Palhinha is proving to be a key sticking point in ongoing discussions.
Benfica head coach Marco Silva is a known admirer of Palhinha, having previously managed him during their time together at Fulham. Silva’s support is believed to be a driving force behind Benfica’s pursuit of the Portuguese international, who offers a strong defensive presence in midfield. Palhinha’s combative style and ability to break up play would likely be highly valued within Silva’s tactical setup.
Palhinha spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, making 35 appearances across all competitions for the Premier League side. Despite a generally positive campaign, Tottenham ultimately decided against exercising the purchase option included in the loan agreement, leaving Palhinha to return to Bayern. He has made 63 appearances for Bayern since joining the club in 2023, scoring 9 goals.
Bayern initially signed Palhinha as a late addition to their squad after failing to secure a deal for Fulham’s Palhinha in the summer of 2023. A move to Benfica would allow Palhinha to return to a league he is familiar with and potentially secure more consistent playing time. Should Benfica successfully complete the transfer, it would strengthen their midfield options ahead of the upcoming season and provide Silva with a key component of his team.
