Unai Emery eyes João Palhinha as Benfica ‘to seek’ loan, threatening Marco Silva’s plan

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·16 juillet 2026

Unai Emery eyes João Palhinha as Benfica ‘to seek’ loan, threatening Marco Silva’s plan

Unai Emery and Aston Villa have entered the race to sign João Palhinha, a development that could hamper Marco Silva’s Benfica plans.

Benfica remain keen to land the midfielder but are pursuing a loan, viewing Bayern Munich’s price for a permanent deal as too high, with 25 million euros cited, according to SIC.

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Palhinha, 31, has two years left on his Bayern contract and is receptive to returning to Portuguese football, including the prospect of playing for Benfica.

The move is complicated by Bayern’s stance and rising competition. Juventus have recently joined the chase, further challenging Benfica’s pursuit.

Aston Villa, under Emery, are monitoring the situation closely. Benfica are working on a structure that reduces immediate outlay, with a loan considered the most workable route to reinforce Silva’s midfield.

Source: Glorioso 1904