Benfica still chasing João Palhinha, Bayern insist on sale as Newcastle join race | OneFootball

Benfica still chasing João Palhinha, Bayern insist on sale as Newcastle join race | OneFootball

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·17 August 2026

Benfica still chasing João Palhinha, Bayern insist on sale as Newcastle join race

Article image:Benfica still chasing João Palhinha, Bayern insist on sale as Newcastle join race

Benfica remain intent on signing João Palhinha, but Bayern Munich's stance and new competition from Newcastle have left the move complex.

According to Glorioso 1904, Bayern are not open to a loan, so Benfica must pursue a permanent transfer, with the Portugal international still at the top of their list.


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Newcastle have entered the race with far greater financial power than Benfica, presenting a particularly tough rival after also failing to land Pierre-Emile Højbjerg.

A deal would require direct negotiations with Bayern and significant outlay, as the German club paid €50 million to sign Palhinha from Fulham two years ago.

Benfica are banking on the player's wish to return to Portuguese football. An understanding with Palhinha is said to be well advanced, with alignment on terms for a possible move to the Luz, which could prove decisive against Newcastle.

The priority now is persuading Bayern to sell and finding a financial structure that makes a high-cost transfer feasible. Despite the hurdles, the club believes his preference could yet make the difference.

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

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