BREAKING NEWS: Benfica Make Decisive Move for João Palhinha as Tottenham Interest Intensifies
S.L. Benfica have reportedly moved decisively in their pursuit of João Palhinha, with the Portuguese giants making significant progress toward securing the Bayern Munich midfielder despite continued interest from Premier League clubs.
According to reports emerging from Portugal, Benfica have agreed personal terms with Palhinha over a four-year contract that would keep him at the club until 2030. The agreement is understood to include a salary of around €6 million gross per season, with the midfielder reportedly keen on a return to Portugal.
The development represents a major step forward for Benfica, who have identified Palhinha as a priority target as they look to strengthen their midfield. Manager Marco Silva is reportedly particularly keen on the experienced Portugal international, having previously worked with him during their time together at Fulham.
Benfica’s interest comes after Palhinha’s future at Bayern Munich became increasingly uncertain. The midfielder joined Bayern from Fulham in 2024 in a deal worth a reported €51 million plus potential add-ons, signing a contract that originally ran until 2028.
However, after spending the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, Palhinha returned to Munich with questions surrounding his long-term future. Tottenham had an option to make his move permanent, but reports indicated that Spurs ultimately decided against completing a permanent transfer.
That decision has opened the door for Benfica, who are now pushing aggressively to bring the midfielder back to Portugal. Recent reports suggest the club has submitted an offer worth €15 million in guaranteed payments, with a further €5 million potentially available through performance-related bonuses.
While some reports have suggested Bayern could demand a higher overall fee, Benfica are believed to be working on a structure that would make the transfer financially manageable. The Portuguese club had initially considered a loan proposal, but Bayern reportedly rejected that approach before Benfica switched their focus toward a permanent deal.
Tottenham’s previous involvement adds another layer of intrigue to the developing story. Palhinha spent last season in north London, meaning Spurs already know the qualities he can bring to a midfield. Yet Benfica’s willingness to push forward with a long-term proposal could now place them in a strong position to win the race.
For Benfica, securing Palhinha would represent more than simply adding another experienced midfielder. His defensive awareness, physical presence and ability to protect the back four could provide valuable balance to Silva’s midfield.
Negotiations between Benfica and Bayern are reportedly continuing, meaning the final agreement still needs to be completed between the clubs. Nevertheless, with personal terms reportedly settled and Palhinha understood to favour a return to Portugal, Benfica appear increasingly confident.
If the deal is completed, Palhinha could soon begin a new chapter of his career in Portugal, with Benfica potentially securing one of the most experienced midfielders available on the market while beating off competition from interested clubs.
