Aston Villa remain in active discussions with Bayern Munich over a summer move for Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha. The 31-year-old is being targeted as a direct replacement for Amadou Onana, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during the World Cup and is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Palhinha spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, where he played a pivotal role in helping the club avoid relegation on the final day of the campaign. Despite Spurs' struggles, the former Fulham man scored crucial goals against Wolves and in the decisive 1-0 victory over Everton that secured their Premier League survival.
Villa's Interest Confirmed After Hong Kong Friendly
Following Villa's 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in a pre-season friendly in Hong Kong, German newspaper BILD published quotes from Villa's sporting director Damian Vidagany, confirming the club's ongoing interest in Palhinha, who came on as a substitute for the Bundesliga champions in the second half of that match.
Unai Emery is keen to add Palhinha to his squad to bolster his midfield options and bring in experience and quality ahead of Villa's Champions League campaign. The Portuguese international would provide a solid defensive presence and leadership in the middle of the park, filling the void left by Onana's injury.
De Zerbi's Praise for Palhinha's Character
Roberto De Zerbi, who managed Palhinha during the final months of last season at Tottenham, was full of praise for the midfielder's personality and performances on the pitch. When asked if he wanted to keep the player after the final-day win against Everton, De Zerbi did not hold back.
“Yes, I would like to keep him 100%. We have to start from these people, before to speak about the players, we have to speak about the people. And we have to start. Then, I can't give the place for everyone in the first eleven. Because I want to build two players in each position. But for sure, I would like him to stay with me. Like Conor Gallagher and Bentancur, the same,” De Zerbi said.
Palhinha's Passionate Celebration at Villa Park
A key moment in Spurs' survival bid came at Villa Park, where Palhinha took control of the midfield battle before grabbing the Spurs badge on his shirt and celebrating passionately with the travelling fans after the victory. That display of emotion left a lasting impression on De Zerbi.
“Yeah, I love Palhinha like this (grabs his shirt and pulls it). They have not to follow me in this but if I saw one player like passionate, I become crazy. We have to start from this type of people. More than players, we need reliable people, reliable players. Palhinha is one of the best, as a player for sure, but as a guy. I want to see the player with the same passion, the same attitude, the same spirit, the same personality, and we are lucky to have with us Palhinha,” De Zerbi added.
What Palhinha Would Bring to Villa
Palhinha's potential arrival at Villa Park would add a wealth of Premier League experience, having previously impressed at Fulham before his move to Bayern Munich. His ability to break up play, read the game, and contribute with important goals makes him a valuable asset for Emery's side as they prepare for a demanding season domestically and in Europe.
The transfer window remains open, and with negotiations ongoing, Villa fans will be hoping a deal can be struck to bring the Portuguese midfielder to the Midlands. His signing would be a statement of intent as the club looks to build on their recent success and compete at the highest level.
