FC Bayern Munich is actively looking to offload midfielder João Palhinha, who recently returned from a loan spell. A compelling new opportunity has now surfaced for the Bundesliga giants regarding the Portuguese international.

Sources indicate that Portuguese powerhouse Benfica Lisbon is showing keen interest in acquiring the 31-year-old defensive midfielder. The most decorated club in Portugal is reportedly preparing a substantial offer amounting to 20 million euros, potentially supplemented by an additional five million euros in performance-related bonuses. This bid would align perfectly with FC Bayern’s stated valuation of 25 million euros for Palhinha.

• A controversial move for the Portuguese star

  Should this transfer materialize, it is anticipated to generate considerable discussion within Portuguese football circles. Palhinha notably developed through the youth ranks of Sporting CP, Benfica’s fierce cross-city rival, where he made 95 official appearances. Prior to a UEFA Champions League clash between Bayern Munich and Benfica in autumn 2024, Palhinha described the encounter as a “special match,” revealing, to many people’s surprise, that despite his deep history with Sporting, his family members were “mostly Benfica supporters.”

  The midfielder, who has openly expressed his willingness to make a move to the red side of Lisbon, would also be reunited at Benfica with coach Marco Silva. The two previously collaborated during Palhinha’s tenure at Fulham in the Premier League, prior to his transfer to Munich.

• João Palhinha’s journey to Bayern and subsequent struggles

  João Palhinha officially joined FC Bayern in 2024 for a fee of 51 million euros. Latest reports suggest that his former club, Sporting CP, had also explored the possibility of re-signing him. However, the Lisbon-based club was ultimately unable to meet the financial demands. Furthermore, Italian giants Juventus Turin and AC Milan are now also rumored to be monitoring the situation.

  Palhinha’s move from Fulham to Bayern Munich in 2024, costing 51 million euros, ultimately did not see him establish a consistent starting role. He participated in only 25 official matches for the Bavarian club, primarily featuring as a substitute. Last summer, he was loaned to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League for a fee of five million euros. Despite narrowly avoiding relegation, the London club opted against activating the agreed-upon purchase option for the player.

  If the transfer to Benfica proceeds, Palhinha would become the fifth player loaned out by Bayern this summer to be permanently sold. He would follow Alexander Nübel (Besiktas), Daniel Peretz (Southampton), Maurice Krattenmacher (Elversberg), and Jonah Kusi-Asare (Fulham).