Bayern cuts €20m flop as João Palhinha heads home this summer
FC Bayern Munich face a stark contrast: a €51 million investment that never delivered versus a €18‑19 million exit that finally resolves a costly misunderstanding. The midfielder João Palhinha is set to leave the club this summer, returning to his home country after a turbulent spell.
Transfer details
The club reached an agreement with Benfica Lisbon, as first reported by the Portuguese news channel SIC Notícias and later confirmed by Sky. According to Sky, the transfer fee could reach €20 million, with the total package – including bonus payments – expected to settle between €18 million and €19 million.
This move will generate a sizeable transfer deficit for Bayern. Palhinha arrived in the summer of 2024 from FC Fulham for a reported €51 million, making him one of the most expensive signings in the club’s recent history.
At 37, the Portuguese international struggled to establish himself at the record champions, featuring in only 25 league appearances during his time in Munich.
Last season, while on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, Palhinha displayed good form, yet the Premier League side chose not to pursue a permanent deal.
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Speculation in recent weeks linked the player with a possible return to England, with Newcastle United and Aston Villa expressing interest. Both clubs only proposed a loan, which Bayern rejected, insisting on a permanent sale.
Benfica Lisbon appears to have met Bayern’s demand, arranging Palhinha’s return to his homeland. An official confirmation of the transfer is expected shortly.
Since his return to Munich, Palhinha has been told he has no role in the squad, a stance previously confirmed by sport director Max Eberl. He becomes the first of a trio of players Bayern intends to off‑load this summer, alongside Sacha Boey and Bryan Zaragoza, both of whom have been removed from the club’s website squad list.
The contrast between the initial €51 million outlay and the forthcoming €18‑19 million exit underscores Bayern’s willingness to cut losses and reshape the roster ahead of the new season.