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League: EPLSport: SoccerCountry: EnglandCategory: Transactions

João Palhinha opts for Benfica over Newcastle despite Bayern's efforts

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 5:30 AM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

João Palhinha opts for Benfica over Newcastle despite Bayern's efforts
Summary

João Palhinha is set to join SL Benfica after declining an offer from Newcastle United, despite Bayern Munich's attempts to facilitate the transfer. Diogo Viana, a former teammate, detailed Bayern's efforts, including personal outreach from coach Vincent Kompany. Palhinha prioritized returning to Portugal over a move to the Premier League, expressing his desire to be closer to family. Bayern is now faced with the reality of either accepting Benfica's terms or retaining a player unwilling to continue elsewhere.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Palhinha will return to Portugal to join SL Benfica.
  • •Bayern Munich tried to convince him to move to Newcastle United.
  • •Coach Kompany and others communicated directly with Palhinha.
  • •Palhinha prioritized family considerations over financial incentives.
  • •Bayern must accept Benfica's terms or keep an uninterested player.
Latest Updates
  • 5:30 AMYahoo Sports — Teammate reveals how Bayern Munich tried — and failed — to convince João Palhinha about Newcastle
What they're saying
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FC Bayern tried to maximize the transfer return, but in the end Palhinha is getting his homecoming wish.

Related Teams & Leagues
Newcastle UnitedBayern MunichEPLSoccer

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