adminNewcastle United are considering a move for Bayern Munich star as new head coach Matthias Jaissle continues to reshape his squad ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline.
The Magpies have undergone significant changes this summer following the departure of Eddie Howe and the arrival of Jaissle, with the club also generating more than £240 million from player sales.
That financial boost has given Newcastle considerable room to manoeuvre in the transfer market as Jaissle looks to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
According to reports, Newcastle United and Aston Villa have both made inquiries regarding Palhinha’s situation at Bayern Munich.
The German giants are reportedly willing to consider a permanent transfer for the Portugal international this summer, with Bayern placing a €25 million (£21.5 million) valuation on the midfielder.
A loan move is reportedly not an option, meaning any interested club would have to meet Bayern’s asking price to secure his services.
Palhinha’s situation has become increasingly interesting after reports suggested that the midfielder has made his desire to leave Bayern clear to head coach Vincent Kompany.
The former Fulham star only joined Bayern last summer, but he struggled to establish himself as an undisputed starter during his first season in Germany.
A return to the Premier League could therefore become a realistic possibility if Bayern receive an acceptable offer.
Newcastle Could Hijack Aston Villa’s Move
Aston Villa are understood to be further along in their pursuit of Palhinha, with the club exploring a deal for the midfielder as they look to strengthen their squad.
However, Villa have reportedly been reluctant to meet Bayern’s €25 million valuation, potentially leaving the door open for Newcastle to intervene.
That could put the Magpies in a strong position to hijack the deal if Jaissle gives the green light.
Newcastle’s need for midfield reinforcements has increased following several significant departures, and Jaissle is believed to be looking for a player capable of providing greater defensive protection and physicality in the middle of the pitch.
Palhinha’s profile would fit that requirement perfectly.
Højbjerg Remains Newcastle’s Priority
Despite their interest in Palhinha, Newcastle’s first choice remains Pierre-Emile Højbjerg.
The former Tottenham midfielder, who currently plays for Marseille, is reportedly the club’s preferred target, with Newcastle exploring a deal worth around £13 million.
Palhinha is therefore viewed as a potential alternative should negotiations for Højbjerg break down.
However, with Aston Villa yet to agree a deal with Bayern and Palhinha’s future increasingly uncertain, Newcastle could decide to accelerate their interest before the opportunity disappears.
With the Magpies having significant funds available following their summer sales, a €25 million deal for Palhinha would be financially achievable.
For Jaissle, the decision could ultimately come down to which midfielder best fits his plans for Newcastle’s new era.
And if the German coach decides that Palhinha is the right man, Newcastle could make a late move to snatch the Bayern Munich star away from Aston Villa.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
