FC Bayern actually wanted to sell Joao Palhinha for a profit this summer. But the club’s hardline stance could now prove to be a problem. The record champions might even be stuck with the Portuguese player.
Joao Palhinha remains one of FC Bayern’s top candidates for a sale. On the field, the 31-year-old no longer plays a role under Vincent Kompany, which is why club officials are hoping for a transfer soon. But that very transfer is proving more difficult than expected.
As reported by BILD, Tottenham Hotspur had originally shown great interest in signing the midfielder permanently following his loan spell. Coach Roberto De Zerbi is said to have been a strong advocate for a permanent transfer. However, the negotiations fell through due to Munich’s financial demands.
According to the report, FC Bayern insisted on a buyout clause of 30 million euros. Tottenham was not willing to accept this price and subsequently withdrew from the negotiations.
Is Bayern now facing a Palhinha problem?
The situation has since become even more complicated for the Munich club. While two top Portuguese clubs— Benfica and Sporting —are both actively pursuing Palhinha, both prefer a loan deal. This is precisely the scenario Bayern wants to avoid if possible and continues to push for a permanent transfer.
Their best hopes therefore currently rest with Aston Villa. Following Amadou Onana’s serious injury, the Premier League club is looking to strengthen its central midfield and has already signaled interest. Whether the English club is willing to meet Bayern’s financial demands, however, remains to be seen.
If no club can be found willing to pay the desired transfer fee, club officials may be forced to significantly lower their asking price or agree to a loan after all. Otherwise, the record champions face the prospect of having to keep Palhinha despite his lack of playing prospects.
The Portuguese national team player has since returned to training at Säbener Straße. While Kompany isn’t including him in his plans, Palhinha is simultaneously waiting for a solution to his future. For FC Bayern, the transfer is likely to become one of the most important unresolved personnel issues in the coming weeks.