Joao Palhinha transfer update as major decision made after Aston Villa pursuit

Aston Villa transfer target João Palhinha is heading to Benfica from Bayern Munich.The 31-year-old midfielder was being targeted by Villa to cover for Amadou Onana, who suffered an ACL injury during the World Cup.Villa wanted to recruit Palhinha on loan, without an obligation to buy, but Benfica were willing to sign him on a permanent basis.Multiple reports have now confirmed that Palhinha is heading to Benfica in a deal worth €15 million up front, with a further €5 million available in add-ons.‌Villa will now need to reassess their options in the transfer market after losing out on Palhinha, a player Damian Vidagany publicly confirmed the club's interest in.Vidagany told Bild: “We need a midfielder because Amadou Onana is out for the entire season – and João Palhinha is a very good player