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Aston Villa might have to take on obligation-to-buy with Bayern Munich for João Palhinha

Nairavoice · Aug 18, 2026 · 1 min read

João Palhinha’s future at Bayern Munich continues to move toward a potential exit, with Aston Villa reportedly emerging as the midfielder’s priority destination.

According to GiveMeSport’s Ben Jacobs (via @iMiaSanMia), Aston Villa remains in talks with Bayern Munich over a deal for Palhinha. Discussions have continued despite Bayern Munich initially proposing a loan arrangement without any commitment to make the transfer permanent.

However, Villa now understands that Bayern Munich are looking for greater certainty. The club will either have to complete a permanent transfer this summer or agree to an obligation to buy as part of a loan deal.

Bayern Munich is reportedly asking for around €30 million for Palhinha, although there are suggestions that a deal could potentially be negotiated for slightly less than that figure. The situation could come down to how Aston Villa structures the deal. A loan with an obligation-to-buy could give Aston Villa more flexibility in the short term while providing Bayern Munich with the permanent transfer they are seeking.

Palhinha’s time in Munich has not developed as many expected when Bayern Munich signed him from Fulham. With Bayern Munich looking to shape the squad for the 2026/27 season, his departure increasingly appears possible.

Benfica has reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Palhinha, while Newcastle United could be exiting the race. For now, talks with Villa are continuing, though. The question is whether the two clubs can find the right formula to get the deal over the line.