Newcastle United have reportedly rekindled their interest in Joao Palhinha as Eddie Howe's side look to bolster their midfield options before the new campaign gets fully underway.
According to the Daily Mail, as relayed by GoalPoles via EPL Index, the Magpies are keen to beat Aston Villa to the Bayern Munich midfielder, with the Portuguese international not viewed as a guaranteed starter under Vincent Kompany in Bavaria.
Bayern are said to be standing firm on their valuation of the 30-year-old, who arrived from Fulham last year but has struggled to nail down a regular spot in the side. That resistance from the German champions could complicate any deal, with Newcastle needing to convince Bayern to lower their asking price if they are to win the race ahead of Villa.
Palhinha built a reputation as one of the Premier League's most combative midfielders during his time at Craven Cottage, and his experience of English football could appeal to Newcastle as they look to add depth and physicality to their engine room this summer.