Marco Silva talks to Palhinha, Benfica ‘to push’ for move, Bayern fee a sticking point | OneFootball

Marco Silva has spoken with João Palhinha about a move to Benfica, with Bayern Munich’s demands still obstructing a deal. The pair worked together at Fulham between 2022 and 2024 and talks are said to have been positive.

According to A BOLA, Palhinha maintains a strong rapport with the coach but, at 31, is weighing other factors. A return to Portugal to be closer to family appeals, yet the finances remain the chief complication.

Bayern paid 50 million euros to sign him from Fulham in summer 2024 and now want 25-30 million euros to sell. With no club ready to meet that range, the club are also open to a loan.

Aston Villa have stepped up discussions in recent days to secure him on loan. Their financial firepower, from a potential loan fee to wages, is stronger than Benfica’s.

Palhinha has rejoined Bayern after spending 2025/26 on loan at Tottenham and is not in Vincent Kompany’s plans. That leaves the door ajar for Benfica, but while Bayern hold firm and Villa push, the signing is far from guaranteed.

Source: Glorioso 1904

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”