Aston Villa reopen talks for João Palhinha as Newcastle move stalls

It seemed like Aston Villa’s pursuit of João Palhinha was off for good when Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl revealed at a press conference last week that talks with the Premier League club had broken down.

However, the deal may not be entirely off, with The Athletic now reporting that Aston Villa have reopened negotiations over a move for the Portuguese midfielder, with optimism that an agreement can be reached.

The report claims that Villa are still aiming for a season-long loan with an option to buy. 

Whether Bayern will ultimately give in to that remains highly doubtful, as the German giants have been pushing for a permanent sale – or, at the very least, a loan with a purchase obligation – all along.

An alternative for Palhinha would be a return to Portugal, with Benfica also said to be interested in signing him.

Newcastle United have also been mentioned as suitors, but The Athletic reports that the Magpies’ pursuit has proven fruitless so far and is unlikely to advance at this stage.