Benfica have officially completed the signing of Portuguese midfielder João Palhinha, according to Correio da Manhã. The club confirmed the transfer on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, with Palhinha putting pen to paper on a contract that runs until 2030.
The deal brings Palhinha back to Portugal after his spell with Bayern Munich in Germany. Correio da Manhã reports that the transfer has been fully formalised, with the player already present at Benfica's Seixal training ground ahead of the announcement. Diário de Notícias also confirmed the length of the contract, stating that Palhinha has signed with the Lisbon club through 2030.
Palhinha's return to Benfica marks a homecoming of sorts, as he previously came through the club's youth system before moving on to other Portuguese sides and eventually earning a move to the Bundesliga. Observador notes that the transfer was completed five and a half weeks after initial talks began, with the player terminating his contract with Bayern to facilitate the move.
The midfielder is expected to bolster Benfica's options in the centre of the pitch as the club looks to compete on multiple fronts this season. His arrival adds experience and defensive solidity to a squad aiming to challenge for domestic honours and make an impact in European competition.
With the signing now official, attention will turn to when Palhinha makes his debut for Benfica. The club's next fixtures will likely determine whether the midfielder is introduced immediately or given time to integrate with his new teammates.
