Bayern Munich Secures Portugal’s Palhinha in €49M Deal

Bayern had been on the verge of signing Palhinha in 2023; the defensive midfielder had even posed in the club’s strip. However, the deal collapsed just before the transfer window closed when Fulham failed to secure a replacement.

In a statement, Palhinha expressed his joy, calling it “one of the happiest days of my life,” and described it as a dream come true. He expressed his ambition to achieve success with Bayern and win titles.

Sporting director Max Eberl commented that Palhinha had been highly sought after by Bayern since the previous summer, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their interest.

Palhinha, who has scored twice in 31 international appearances, participated in Portugal’s Euro 2024 campaign, which ended in the quarter-finals against France.

His signing marks Bayern’s third major addition of the summer as they rebuild following a trophy-less season for the first time since 2012. Forward Michael Olise and centre-back Hiroki Ito have already joined the club, alongside new manager Vincent Kompany, appointed at the end of the previous season.

Kompany’s primary task is to restore Bayern’s dominance in German football after their streak of 11 consecutive Bundesliga titles was ended last season. Bayern was also eliminated in the Champions League semi-finals by eventual winners Real Madrid, while Bayer Leverkusen claimed the league and cup double under manager Xabi Alonso.

Adding to the pressure, Bayern will host the Champions League final at the Allianz Arena next season.