Former Tottenham midfielder Joao Palhinha could be set for a Premier League return, just two months after rejoining Bayern Munich following the end of his loan spell at Spurs.
Tottenham Hotspur have significantly strengthened their midfield this summer, completing the signings of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
The pair cost Spurs a combined £185 million, making them the club’s most expensive and second-most expensive signings within a week of each other.
Their arrivals altered Tottenham’s plans for Joao Palhinha, whom Spurs had been keen to sign following his impressive loan spell in north London last season.
Aston Villa join race for former Tottenham midfielder Joao Palhinha
Palhinha has now returned to Bayern Munich, but his future remains uncertain this summer, with several clubs still interested in signing him.
That is according to Record, who claim the former Spurs midfielder is attracting significant interest. Benfica are among the clubs to have entered the race for the Portugal international.
It is understood the Portuguese giants know it will take €25 million (£21.6 million) to prise Palhinha away from Bayern Munich.
They are willing to meet that valuation, although their preference is for the midfielder to initially join on loan with an obligation to buy. Benfica are also aware they will face competition for his signature.
Sporting were one of the clubs rivalling Tottenham for Palhinha earlier this summer and could still remain in the race, although they are not mentioned in the latest report.
Aston Villa emerge as contenders for Joao Palhinha
Joining Benfica in the race are Juventus and Aston Villa, who also have Palhinha on their radar during this summer’s transfer window.
Villa are understood to be preparing for a midfield rebuild following Youri Tielemans’ surprise move to Manchester United, while Amadou Onana also suffered an ACL injury during his time with Belgium at the World Cup.
Douglas Luiz has since returned to Juventus following the end of his loan spell, leaving Unai Emery in need of midfield reinforcements.
Should Aston Villa decide to make a move for Palhinha, the former Spurs midfielder would be set for a return to England just a few months after leaving Tottenham.