Marco Silva wants Palhinha at Benfica as deal could happen | OneFootball

Marco Silva wants Palhinha at Benfica, with a move possible after Tottenham chose not to trigger a purchase option.

According to Glorioso 1904, the midfielder remains on Benfica’s shortlist and the club understand the outline of a potential deal to sign him from Bayern Munich. He spent last season on loan at Tottenham, who did not make the move permanent.

He is not in Bayern’s plans for 2026/27, so a summer switch is likely. Sporting considered bringing back their former captain but signed Sergi Altimira, lowering the priority without closing the door.

At the start of the window, Palhinha was not minded to join Benfica. With interest limited, the situation has shifted and a U-turn could now be on the table.

Palhinha has a strong relationship with Silva, who coached him at Fulham and helped establish him in the Premier League, which could work in Benfica’s favour.

In 2025/26 with Tottenham, Palhinha, valued at 15 million euros, made 45 appearances, including 33 in the Premier League and eight in the Champions League. He also featured twice in the League Cup, once in the FA Cup and once in the UEFA Super Cup. Across 2,917 minutes he scored seven goals and provided two assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904