Newcastle have presented a three-year contract to Joao Palhinha | OneFootball

Newcastle United have tabled a three-year contract offer to Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha after Aston Villa’s negotiations for the player collapsed, according to journalist Diego Pico.

Although Villa had reportedly agreed personal terms with Palhinha, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl publicly confirmed there was ‘no chance of an agreement’ because the Europa League champions prefer to sanction an initial loan deal.

With Bayern seeking a permanent transfer, Newcastle are now looking to swoop for the Portugal international.

Signing Palhinha would address a critical need on Tyneside after high-profile summer departures left the Magpies’ midfield depleted.

Palhinha’s Premier League experience makes him an ideal target. After impressing at Fulham, the 31-year-old spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Tottenham Hotspur.

He featured in 45 matches across all competitions and played a key role in Spurs’ late-season rally, which resulted in them securing top-flight safety on the final day against Everton.

His tackling and ball-winning stats consistently rank among the best in Europe, providing a high level of defensive solidity.

Newcastle’s willingness to complete a permanent deal puts them in a strong position in talks with Bayern Munich.

The Bavarians paid €51 million to sign Palhinha in 2024, but manager Vincent Kompany has indicated the Portuguese international is surplus to requirements for 2026/27.

As a result, Bayern prefer an immediate sale to reinvest before the window closes next month.

With a three-year contract offer now on the table, the decision rests with the player, who is keen to remain in English football and was open to remaining at Spurs before they opted not to retain him.

Portuguese giants Benfica are also interested in Palhinha but are currently unwilling to pursue a permanent transfer.