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Aston Villa have been linked with Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha.

Palhinha is expected to leave Bayern this summer after spending last season on loan at Tottenham Hotspur.

Villa sporting director Damian Vidagany has confirmed that the club are in discussions with Bayern over Palhinha.

"We need a player in midfield because Amadou Onana is out for the whole season – and Joao Palhinha is a very good player who would suit our plans," he told Bild.

"We are in talks, but at the moment there is no agreement. If anything happens, it will always be on the basis of the great respect we have for FC Bayern.

"We are friendly clubs; our relationship with Max Eberl, Christoph Freund and all the other people in charge is excellent. That is why I cannot and do not want to comment on any further details."

Bayern are keen to sell Palhinha and have placed an asking price of €25 million (£21m) on the Portuguese midfielder, but Villa are reported to view that fee as too high.

The two clubs have also explored a loan deal with an option to buy, but they have not yet been able to agree on the terms.

Youri Tielemans' move to Manchester United has increased Villa's need to reinforce their midfield.

They have already signed Johan Manzambi and Joao Gomes, but are still expected to bring in one more midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Palhinha would offer defensive strength to Villa's midfield while also carrying a goal threat. The 31-year-old ranked first for tackles per game in the Premier League last season, and he recorded seven goal involvements in the competition.

Even so, Villa should consider signing Palhinha on loan because of his limitations in possession and his age.