Aston Villa now in talks to sign £26m star alongside Wan-Bissaka

Aston Villa are now in talks to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha, who could be brought in alongside West Ham United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

With Amadou Onana suffering a long-term knee injury, and Youri Tielemans joining Manchester United, it will be important for Villa to improve their midfield before the transfer deadline in two weeks time, and Palhinha could be the ideal addition to their ranks.

The 31-year-old has made more than 100 appearances in the Premier League, across spells with Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, and he received major plaudits for his work-rate from former teammate Tim Ream, who said: “He’s everywhere. Sometimes I look up and he’s in front of me, and two seconds later he’s closing someone down near the corner flag. His energy is unbelievable.”

A defensive-minded midfielder, the 37-cap Portugal international excels when it comes to winning back possession, making more tackles than any other player in a major European league in the 2022-23 season.

Last season, the 31-year-old made 110 tackles in the Premier League, which was an average of 4.5 per 90, and the second-highest number in the top flight, behind only Everton star James Garner.

As such, the former Tottenham man could be the ideal addition to Unai Emery’s midfield, and there has been a fresh update on the Villan’s pursuit.

Aston Villa in talks to sign Joao Palhinha

According to reporter John Townley, Aston Villa are still working on a move for Palhinha, who could join alongside West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with the right-back also being pursued.

The Bayern Munich midfielder is keen on a move to Villa Park, and fellow reporter Jacob Tanswell has suggested the German side would be willing to cash-in for just €30m (£26m), which could be paid at the end of an initial loan spell.

Tanswell adds that Villa have now engaged in fresh talks to sign the Portugal international, but there could be competition from Benfica, with widespread reports suggesting the Portuguese side have now agreed personal terms.

Aston Villa stepping up pursuit of new striker

REUTERS/Daniele Mascolo

As Ollie Watkins has agreed personal terms with Al-Hilal, Aston Villa have also been stepping up a move for a new striker, and they have opened talks regarding a deal for AC Milan star Christopher Nkunku.

Emery is a big fan of the former Chelsea striker, who he worked with during his time as Paris Saint-Germain boss, and the Italian side are prepared to sanction a transfer if they receive £30m, which should be affordable.

However, Nkunku wasn’t exactly prolific in the Serie A last season, scoring just seven goals, which raises doubts about whether he would be a solid replacement for Watkins.