Aston Villa could now move for an experienced Premier League midfielder as they close in on a deal to sign Johan Manzambi. Unai Emery was hit with the big blow of losing key midfielder Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, who activated his release clause earlier this week.
Tielemans has been a key player for Villa, regularly controlling the rhythm of games with the ball at his feet, but the release clause put Villa in a vulnerable position, and United have taken advantage. Villa have pivoted since, and they have found a replacement in Johan Manzambi, hijacking Newcastle United's £49million move and outbidding them to secure a replacement for Tielemans.
But Emery may not be done there, likely wanting to add further to his midfield, and one name is being mentioned regularly this week.
Romano issues update on Aston Villa's Palhinha interest
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Joao Palhinha celebrates Premier League win over Aston Villavia Reuters
Villa have been linked with a move for Bayern Munich star Joao Palhinha this week, with the Portugal international available after Tottenham decided not to activate their £26million option to buy, instead spending much bigger money to sign Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
Providing an update on Villa's reported interest in Palhinha, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano said on his YouTube show: "Lots of questions about the possibility of Joao Palhinha going to Aston Villa. Palhinha is a name appreciated by Aston Villa. So, keep an eye on Palhinha for Aston Villa. It's a name discussed by the management and Unai Emery, but still no official bid or negotiation for Palhinha, with Bayern owning the player's rights."
Palhinha is reportedly available for just £21.8million this summer, or 25million euros, with Bayern Munich willing to agree a cut-price deal to offload the 31-year-old. That could suit Villa, who are also likely to strengthen other areas this summer.
Palhinha a 'reliable' player in the Premier League
Joao Palhinha in action for Tottenham Hotspurvia Reuters
Palhinha will be valued as a solid option by Villa, given he is a proven Premier League midfielder. At both Fulham and Tottenham, Palhinha has been a steady and reliable performer. The veteran midfielder was one of the few consistent players in a poor Spurs side last summer, and it's likely they would have kept him had they not decided to spend £185million on two midfielders, allowing them to upgrade further.
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi actually said of Palhinha at the end of last season: "More than players, we need reliable people, reliable players. Palhinha is one of the best, as a player for sure and as a guy. I want to see the player with the same passion, the same attitude, the same spirit, and the same personality, and we are lucky to have him."
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