It has been clear that João Palhinha most of all wanted to go home to Portugal, something that cost Bayern Munich a few million in lost revenue, and with both Aston Villa and Newcastle ready with bigger money than is the case in the deal presented on Thursday.
It was ultimately between Benfica and Sporting, the choice of Benfica was made after Marco Silva, who João Palhinha played for at Fulham signed a few weeks ago.
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Benfica sign midfielder João Palhinha from Bayern Munich.
Benfica will pay €14 million to sign João Palhinha from Bayern Munich. In addition, there will be bonuses of another €5 million, which according to unconfirmed rumours will be €6 million less than what Newcastle put on the table.
The midfielder also gets a buyout clause of 50 million euros. The Portuguese has signed a deal that lasts until 2030.
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Earlier in the transfer window, Palhinha was linked with clubs such as Sporting, Aston Villa and Newcastle. At Benfica, he reunites with coach Marco Silva – the two worked together at Fulham.
In Portugal, the 31-year-old has previously played for Braga and Sporting, among others.
