Newcastle United engage in direct talks to sign experience Bayern Munich midfielder

Newcastle United have stepped up their pursuit of João Palhinha, opening direct talks with Bayern Munich as Matthias Jaissle attempts to rebuild a midfield stripped of two major players this summer.

Bruno Guimarães’ £75 million move to Arsenal and Sandro Tonali’s departure to Tottenham have left a significant leadership and experience gap at St James’ Park.

Newcastle explored Pierre-Emile Højbjerg before the Dane rejected the move, and Palhinha has now emerged as one of their clearest alternatives.

The Portugal international also knows the Premier League extremely well following spells with Fulham and Tottenham, which could allow him to make an immediate impact.

Newcastle United & Bayern involved in direct talks

According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Newcastle are now in direct negotiations with Bayern over a permanent move for Palhinha.

Bayern want to sell the 31-year-old and are not interested in another loan arrangement.

That position has already complicated Aston Villa’s pursuit. The Sun reported that Bayern rejected Villa’s proposal for a loan with an option to buy, while Newcastle subsequently intensified their interest.

The report also noted that Benfica were willing to explore a permanent transfer, meaning Newcastle could still face competition if negotiations with Bayern drag on.