João Palhinha arrived at Lisbon Airport on Saturday as he prepares to complete a transfer to Benfica from Bayern Munich.
The 31-year-old Portuguese international midfielder landed in the capital accompanied by his father and brother, carrying several bags of luggage as he closes in on an imminent return to Portuguese football. His official presentation as a Benfica player is expected to take place next week.
Speaking to reporters upon landing, Palhinha made clear that he would not comment on the transfer until every contract detail was signed. He stated that he remains a Bayern Munich player for now and will return to Germany on Sunday.
Palhinha explained that he had traveled to Portugal to spend his two days off with his children, asking journalists not to press him for statements. No representatives from Benfica were present at the airport to meet him, though returning to play in Portugal represents his primary ambition at this stage of his career.
Transfer Terms and Financial Details
Negotiations involving Benfica, Bayern Munich, and the player are complete, with only final contractual details regarding his departure from the German club left to settle. The transfer operation will be closed for around 14 million euros, with an additional 5 million euros tied to performance objectives.
To facilitate the move to the Estadio da Luz, Palhinha agreed to take a pay cut. Benfica will pay the midfielder approximately 3 million euros net per year over a four-season contract, alongside a signing bonus.
The deal brings Palhinha back to Portuguese football after four seasons abroad, during which he had spells with Premier League sides Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur before joining Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.
Benfica Inquire About Alejandro Baldé
Benfica are also active elsewhere in the transfer market, having made inquiries regarding Barcelona left-back Alejandro Baldé. According to reports in the British press, the Lisbon club have joined the race for the 22-year-old defender.
Benfica face competition for Baldé's signature from English Premier League side Aston Villa, who are also monitoring the Spain international's situation at the Catalan club.
Fredrik Aursnes Returns to Action
Meanwhile, Benfica captain Fredrik Aursnes made his first appearance of the season during the team's recent fixture against Danish side Aarhus. The midfielder marked his return on social media, posting that it was good to be back.
Aursnes is now contending for a starting place on Thursday when Benfica play the second leg of their UEFA Europa League play-off tie.
