Aston Villa in talks to sign Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich

Aston Villa are accelerating their efforts to sign midfielder Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich, with the club's director of football operations confirming ongoing talks for the Portuguese international. The 31-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, has been told he has no future at Bayern and is available this summer.

Villa's director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, confirmed the club's interest in an interview with German newspaper Bild. "We need a midfielder because Amadou Onana is out for the entire season and João Palhinha is a very good player who would fit our plans," Vidagany stated. "We are in talks, but there is currently no agreement." He added that any potential deal would be conducted with respect for Bayern, noting the clubs have an excellent relationship.

The move is driven by Villa's need to bolster their midfield following the season-ending knee injury to Amadou Onana and the sale of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United. The club has already signed Joao Gomes from Wolverhampton Wanderers but is seeking further reinforcement as it prepares for its Champions League campaign.

While Villa are considered frontrunners, negotiations are...