Bayern midfielder João Palhinha completes transfer to Benfica

Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha has completed a transfer to Benfica, the Bundesliga champions said in a statement on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old Portugal international is returning to his home city of Lisbon, where he began his professional career at Sporting.

Palhinha signed a contract with Benfica until June 2030 and, according to media reports, the Portuguese club paid around €20 million ($23.4 million) for the transfer.

"We've discussed João Palhinha's situation openly with him and found a solution that we could all agree on. He's decided to continue his career in his home country. We thank him for his time at FC Bayern and wish him all the best for the future," Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl said.

Palhinha moved to Bayern from Premier League side Fulham in 2024. He spent the previous season on loan at Tottenham.