Benfica push to land Palhinha after Aston Villa bid rejected by Bayern

Benfica are now in direct talks with Bayern Munich to try and secure João Palhinha after the Germans rejected Aston Villa's bid for the Portuguese midfielder, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The plot thickens: Bayern turned down the Premier League side's approach, but now Benfica see an opening to persuade the Bavarians. The Eagles are keen to prevent Palhinha from joining the English top flight and have initiated club-to-club negotiations to find a deal that works for everyone.

The coming days will be crucial to see whether Bayern budge on Benfica's terms or if there are more twists ahead in Palhinha's story.