Aston Villa sporting director Damian Vidagany has confirmed his club’s interest in Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha. Speaking to Sport Bild, the Villa executive acknowledged the Premier League club’s interest following Friday’s 2-1 friendly defeat to Bayern in Hong Kong. Aston Villa are searching for a midfielder after Amadou Onana was ruled out for the entire season.
Talks are underway, though the Villa executive stressed that no agreement has yet been reached. Palhinha will nevertheless most likely be departing his Bundesliga club at some point this summer. The 31-year-old remains part of a trio of players for whom Bayern have openly stated that they have no plans to use this season. The interest represents a revival of a long-standing link. Aston Villa were already reported to be among the Premier League clubs interested in Palhinha last summer, before Bayern ultimately loaned the midfielder to Tottenham Hotspur.
The German tabloid reports that financial differences remain the primary obstacle. Bayern reportedly want approximately €25m for a permanent transfer. The clubs have also thus far been unable to agree terms on a possible loan containing a purchase option. Palhinha remains under contract in Munich through 2028. Despite recently reiterating a willingness to remain at Bayern, Palhinha and his representatives are preparing for a departure.
Vidagany’s statement on Joao Palhinha
Vidagany believes Villa could provide an attractive destination, specifically citing the club’s recent European progress and the tactical influence of head coach Unai Emery.
“We need a player for midfield because Amadou Onana is out for the whole season,” Vidagany told the German tabloid. “João Palhinha is a very good player who would fit our plans.”
