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Aston Villa are leading the race for 31-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha. The Birmingham side is hoping for a loan with a buy option, while Bayern insist on a full sale. Newcastle are also in the mix for the Portuguese.

Birmingham's Aston Villa have ramped up efforts to sign 31-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha following his stint at Tottenham last season.

The Portuguese midfielder has been informed he no longer features in Bayern's plans, making a return to England seem the most likely scenario.

Disagreement over deal structure and competition

  • Villa's approach: Aston Villa are looking to agree on a loan deal with a future buy option — similar to the arrangement he had at Tottenham.
  • Bayern's position: The Munich hierarchy prefers a full sale of the ex-Fulham star and is weighing up offers.
  • Newcastle's interest: Newcastle have held talks with Palhinha's camp as they seek an experienced option in central midfield. The Portuguese is viewed by the Magpies as an alternative to Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Financial barriers from Portuguese giants

Earlier this summer, clubs from Portugal including Sporting, Porto, and Benfica, who are managed by Palhinha's former boss Marco Silva, considered a move back home. However, the financial demands of the deal proved too much for the Portuguese sides.

As it stands, Aston Villa hold the status of frontrunners in the chase for the midfielder.