Newcastle United remain in the race for João Palhinha, but there is still one major problem. The Bayern Munich midfielder does not currently want the move.
That has not stopped the Germans from trying to make it happen.
According to Correio da Manhã, the proposal from Newcastle is the one Bayern like most, with the Magpies pushing for a permanent transfer. The German club would much prefer that solution to another loan.
Palhinha, though, has reportedly already told Bayern he does not want to join Newcastle.
The newspaper says the 31-year-old has made it clear he would only be interested in leaving for Benfica or Aston Villa. Bayern are now working to convince him to change that position and agree personal terms with Newcastle.
Bayern want the Newcastle solution
João Palhinha had already been reported to have rejected Newcastle after they offered him a three-year contract.
Despite that, the Magpies remained in the picture, with Portuguese reports at the weekend saying they were negotiating directly with Bayern over a permanent move.
Max Eberl then confirmed negotiations were taking place over Palhinha’s exit, without naming the club involved.
The midfielder was even left out of Bayern’s latest match so the transfer talks would not be put at risk.
Correio da Manhã now helps explain why Newcastle have continued to appear so strongly despite the player’s reported refusal.
From Bayern’s point of view, their proposal is currently the most attractive one on the table. The problem is just… convincing Palhinha.
Benfica still hoping refusal helps them
A Bola also reports Newcastle are now the biggest threat to Benfica’s hopes of signing the midfielder.
João Palhinha has already reached a principle agreement with the Lisbon club and made a significant effort to lower his salary demands.
Correio da Manhã adds that he was satisfied with Benfica’s financial proposal, which would be based on a four-year contract.
A return to Portugal would also allow him to be closer to his family, while his strong relationship with Marco Silva remains another factor in Benfica’s favour.
Aston Villa had also been one of Palhinha’s preferred options, but Bayern have publicly ruled out reaching an agreement with them.
That leaves a fairly awkward situation. Bayern want the Newcastle deal. Newcastle are willing to negotiate a permanent transfer. Palhinha, for now, is saying no.
The German club are therefore trying to get the player on board, while Benfica wait to see whether his resistance eventually forces Bayern to soften their position.
