Villa in talks to sign Bayern's Palhinha

Aston Villa are engaged in discussions regarding a potential transfer for Bayern Munich's midfielder, Joao Palhinha. The 31-year-old Portugal international has emerged as a preferred target for Villa following an injury to Amadou Onana during the World Cup. Palhinha's current status remains uncertain, but he has expressed openness to joining Villa Park, which is considered one of his most favorable options.

Bayern Munich is willing to release him after a two-year stint, with the £47.4m acquisition fee originally paid to Fulham. Palhinha was previously on loan at Tottenham, but the club did not exercise their £26m purchase option. Roberto de Zerbi, Villa's manager, expressed interest in signing Palhinha due to his pivotal role in Tottenham's relegation battle, but the transfer did not materialize.

Villa director of football Damian Vidagany confirmed the club's interest in Palhinha, stating that the move is in talks but no agreement has been reached yet. Villa's recent pre-season friendly against Bayern in Hong Kong saw Palhinha featured as a substitute. The Premier League side has had a hectic summer, with notable players such as Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Lucas Digne departing, leaving them in pursuit of replacements. They have recently signed Alejandro Garnacho, Joao Gomes, Johan Manzambi, and Moudou Keba Cisse.