Newcastle United identify top midfield target after losing Tonali and Guimaraes

Newcastle United’s midfield rebuild could lead them towards another player with proven Premier League experience, with Bayern Munich’s João Palhinha emerging as a possible late-window addition.

The Magpies have been forced into significant changes after losing both Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali this summer.

Guimarães completed a £75 million move to Arsenal, leaving Newcastle without two players who formed a major part of their midfield identity.

That makes signing an experienced replacement increasingly important, and Palhinha offers a very different profile.

The 31-year-old is a physical, defensively aggressive midfielder who already knows English football well from his spells with Fulham and Tottenham.

Newcastle United step up Palhinha chase

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle have added Palhinha to their shortlist as they consider further midfield reinforcements before the window closes.

Bayern Munich are prepared to let the Portugal international leave following his loan spell with Tottenham last season.

However, Newcastle face serious competition from Aston Villa, who have already been discussing a possible move with the German champions.

The race appears to be developing quickly. talkSPORT reports that Villa have held talks with Bayern, while Newcastle are considering hijacking the deal after selling Guimarães and Tonali for a combined £175 million.

Palhinha enjoyed a productive season at Tottenham, making 45 appearances across competitions while scoring seven goals and providing three assists.

Palhinha could bring experience to the Magpies

This would not be a direct like-for-like replacement for Guimarães or Tonali, but that might actually be the attraction.

Newcastle have lost enormous technical quality from midfield. Palhinha would instead provide defensive security, physicality and Premier League experience while allowing the club to pursue another midfielder with more creativity.

There is some risk attached to signing a 31-year-old, particularly if Bayern demand a sizeable permanent fee. Newcastle therefore need to avoid paying for past reputation rather than future value.

However, their need is immediate. The Guardian also reports that Newcastle are considering Palhinha alongside Marseille midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg as they rebuild following the departures of Guimarães and Tonali.

Palhinha would give Newcastle an experienced anchor immediately. At the right price, that could make him a sensible short-term solution while the club builds its next midfield around younger players.