Newcastle United are still trying to sign Joao Palhinha
The race for Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha is taking a new turn. Following the collapse of Bayern's talks with Aston Villa over the Portuguese international, Newcastle United have seemingly moved to the front of the queue for his signature.
Newcastle United want Joao Palenha
According to Sky Sports, Newcastle are now in negotiations with Bayern over a permanent deal for the 31-year-old. The report suggests that the Magpies have shifted their focus to Palhinha after their move for Pierre-Emile Højbjerg fell through, and they are now hoping to finalise an agreement before the transfer window closes.
Palhinha has also drawn interest from Benfica and Sporting CP back in his native Portugal, but the former Fulham man is said to prefer a return to the Premier League, where he spent last season on loan at Tottenham.
Notably, the 31-year-old was left out of Bayern's squad for Saturday's 3-1 Telekom Cup victory over RB Leipzig, further fuelling speculation about his imminent departure.