It had looked like Newcastle United were out of the race to sign Joao Palhinha. Reports had emerged suggesting that the midfielder had already agreed personal terms with Aston Villa and was pushing for a move to the Birmingham club.
Of course, it is not the first time this summer that Newcastle United had failed to compete with Aston Villa. Let us not forget how the Johan Manzambi saga played out.
Newcastle United were linked with Manzambi for months and even agreed a deal with his club SC Freiburg. But the Swiss World Cup standout chose to move to Aston Villa instead.
Interestingly, this time around, Newcastle United have been handed a lifeline out of nowhere. It has been confirmed that Aston Villa have failed to reach an agreement with Bayern Munich regarding the transfer of Palhinha.
Bayern Munich director confirms there is no agreement with Aston Villa for Joao Palhinha
According to Fabrizio Romano, Bayern Munich director Max Eberl said regarding the situation:
“Aston Villa have contacted us for João Palhinha but there’s no agreement.”
“The deal is currently off.”
Obviously, this gives Newcastle United a second chance at signing Palhinha. Will they be successful? We do not know. But at least they are in with an opportunity to do so when all hope had seemed lost even a few hours ago.
It is easy to see why someone like Palhinha could prove to be a good addition to this Newcastle United squad. He is 31 years of age and in the twilight of his prime.
But at the same time, he would bring experience and proven quality, especially in the Premier League. In fact, Palhinha has played his best football in the English top flight, while at Fulham.
It was that what convinced Bayern Munich to sign him in a big-money move even though he was already in his late 20s at that point. It did not work out for him in Bavaria. Now, a move back to the Premier League looks to be on the cards.
Palhinha would be an excellent signing for Newcastle United
It is also worth pointing out that Palhinha played on loan at Tottenham Hotspur last season. So, he has already proven that he can still deliver at the Premier League level.
In many ways, if the finances make sense, this move should be a bit of a no-brainer for Newcastle United. Not only would Palhinha bring his on-field qualities but could be important to this dressing room as well.
Newcastle United have lost a lot of experience and leadership in their midfield this summer. Palhinha could be someone who can replace that.
He has been at winning clubs like Bayern Munich and Sporting CP. And even at the other end of the table, he did help Tottenham Hotspur avoid relegation last season.
So, he does bring a lot of different tools to the table. If Newcastle United have a genuine chance of signing Palhinha, now that a move to Aston Villa seems off, they should take it.
