Bayern Munich midfielder Palinha has officially joined Benfica for a transfer fee of up to €19 million.

Benfica officially announced on Wednesday that they have signed Portuguese defensive midfielder João Palinha from Bayern Munich. The two sides have reached an agreement on a four-year contract with a €50 million release clause.

The official announcement also confirmed that Palinha will wear the number 36 jersey for Benfica. His transfer fee is a whopping €14 million, with an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses.

There are also reports that Palinha's annual salary at Benfica is €2.5 million after tax.

The 31-year-old Palinha previously played for Sporting CP, Moreirense, Belenenses, Braga, and Fulham, winning one Portuguese league title, three Portuguese League Cup titles, and one Portuguese Super Cup. He transferred to Bayern Munich in July 2024 for €51 million, but has since failed to fully live up to expectations.

To date, Palinha has only made 25 appearances for Bayern Munich. Bayern then loaned him out to Tottenham Hotspur for a season, but his form never improved.

Regarding the decision to let Palinha go, Bayern Munich's sporting director Max Eberl explained: "We had a frank discussion with João Palinha about his situation and found a solution that was acceptable to both sides. He decided to return to his home country to continue his career. We thank him for everything he has done for Bayern Munich and wish him all the best for the future."

As for Palinha, he is eager to prove himself again at Benfica: "It is well known that playing for Benfica raises high expectations. At this moment, I am just one of many players who contribute to the club and give their all. I have no doubt that everyone at the club and all the fans are eager to win the championship."

Image source: Internet/Benfica official website