Aston Villa are working to finalise a deal for Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha, with negotiations between the two clubs already under way. The 31-year-old Portugal international emerged as a priority target for Unai Emery's side after Amadou Onana suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee while on international duty for Belgium at the World Cup.
According to sources close to the player, Palhinha has not yet committed to the switch, though he is understood to view a move to Villa Park as one of his most attractive options. Bayern Munich, meanwhile, appear ready to sanction his departure just two years after paying Fulham £47.4m for his signature.
Palhinha's time in Germany has not gone entirely to plan, and last season he was sent out on loan to Tottenham Hotspur, where he played an important part in helping the club steer clear of relegation trouble. Despite that contribution, Spurs ultimately decided not to activate their £26m purchase option at the end of the campaign. It is believed that head coach Roberto de Zerbi had hoped to keep the midfielder at the club given his impact, but Tottenham and Bayern were unable to agree terms for a permanent transfer.
Villa's director of football, Damian Vidagany, addressed the speculation directly, telling German outlet Bild that the club rate Palhinha highly.