Transfer Deal Nears
Bayern Munich and Benfica have finalized a transfer deal for João Palhinha, according to reports from SIC Notícias and Bavarian Football Works. The 31-year-old defensive midfielder is set to join Benfica for 15 million euros plus up to 5 million euros in add-ons. The sale is expected to be completed soon. Benfica will pay a total of up to 19 million euros, with 3 million euros of the add-ons considered relatively easy to achieve.
Palhinha's Bayern Career
Palhinha, who joined Bayern from Fulham in 2024, failed to establish himself as a regular starter. Under coach Vincent Kompany, he made just 25 appearances and spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur. The Portuguese, earning 10 million euros gross per season at Bayern, will receive 2.5 million euros net annually at Benfica. The sale marks the end of a transfer initiative that never unfolded as expected.
Return to Portugal
The transfer signifies Palhinha's return to Portugal, where he previously shone as a youth player. With Benfica, the 31-year-old aims to revive his career. The deal includes a 1-million-euro signing bonus. Bayern's sports director Max Eberl had already confirmed the sale as a priority. The transfer is expected to be finalized by the summer break.
