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BREAKING! — Newcastle United Signing Arrives in UK as Medical Is Scheduled, Deal Nears Completion!
Newcastle had previously explored a move for Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, but the Denmark international rejected the opportunity. Palhinha subsequently became one of the clearest alternatives.
The 31-year-old already knows English football extremely well after previous spells with Fulham and Tottenham, meaning he could be ready to make an immediate impact at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United have stepped up their pursuit of João Palhinha, with the experienced midfielder travelling to the UK on Sunday night after his plans changed as the Magpies move closer to completing a deal.
The Portugal international is expected to undergo his medical on Monday morning before signing for Newcastle United, with the deal now understood to be at an advanced stage.
Palhinha has emerged as one of Newcastle’s leading midfield targets following the departures of Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali this summer.
Guimarães completed a £75 million move to Arsenal, while Tonali left for Tottenham, leaving Matthias Jaissle with a significant gap in both experience and defensive strength in midfield
Newcastle United close in on Palhinha
Newcastle have been in direct negotiations with Bayern Munich over a permanent transfer for Palhinha.
Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg previously reported that the two clubs had opened direct talks, with Bayern making it clear that they wanted to sell the midfielder rather than send him out on another loan.
🚨⏳ Newcastle United are now in direct talks with FC Bayern over Joao Palhinha.
Bayern want to sell and Newcastle are aware of that. #NUFC
A loan with an option or obligation to buy is currently not an option for Bayern. @SkySportDE 🇵🇹
The German club’s position had complicated interest from Aston Villa, who had explored a loan arrangement.
Newcastle’s willingness to pursue a permanent deal has therefore helped them move ahead in the race, with the Magpies now seemingly closing in on an agreement.
Palhinha brings experience to Jaissle’s midfield
The move would represent an important addition to Newcastle’s rebuilding project under Jaissle.
Palhinha would not be expected to replace Guimarães’ creativity or Tonali’s ability to control possession, but he would offer something Newcastle currently need: experience, physicality and defensive protection in front of the back four.
The Portuguese midfielder is renowned for his ability to win tackles, dominate physical battles and provide protection for the defence.
His age means Newcastle would have to be careful with the financial terms of the deal, particularly regarding the transfer fee and length of contract.
However, with several younger midfielders already in the squad, Palhinha’s experience could prove extremely valuable during Newcastle’s rebuild.
With the midfielder now in the UK and a medical reportedly scheduled, Newcastle appear to be on the verge of completing another major piece of their midfield rebuild.
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