João Palhinha has reportedly rejected a “significant offer” from a Saudi Arabian club, prioritising proximity to his family and the opportunity to compete at a high level in European football, according to Portuguese outlet Maisfutebol.
The Bayern Munich midfielder, who spent the previous campaign on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, finds himself excluded from manager Vincent Kompany’s plans for the upcoming season. Despite featuring regularly during his temporary spell in North London, Palhinha returned to Bavaria without securing a permanent transfer to the Premier League.
Benfica interest faces financial hurdle
Benfica have emerged as a potential destination for the 31-year-old Portugal international. Palhinha is understood to be open to returning to the Primeira Liga, where he previously established himself as one of the division’s dominant defensive midfielders with Sporting CP.
However, any move to Lisbon is complicated by Bayern’s valuation. The German champions have set an asking price of €25 million for Palhinha, a sum that Benfica have yet to match. Sources suggest Bayern would need to reduce their demands significantly to facilitate the transfer.
Pre-season limbo
Palhinha remains under contract with Bayern until June 2028, leaving the club in a strong negotiating position despite their willingness to sell. Until an agreement is reached with prospective suitors, he is expected to report for pre-season training with Kompany’s first-team squad.
The situation leaves the Portuguese midfielder in professional limbo as he seeks regular first-team football ahead of the new season. His rejection of Middle Eastern interest indicates a clear preference for remaining within Europe’s major leagues, though the financial gap between Benfica and Bayern’s valuation currently blocks his most concrete exit route.