Joao Palhinha’s latest display for Tottenham against Everton highlights the core reason why Roberto De Zerbi is keen on signing him permanently.
One man consistently turned up for Tottenham Hotspur during the run-in, scoring crucial goals and producing solid displays, and that is Joao Palhinha.
The on-loan Bayern Munich midfielder was on hand to help Tottenham secure their first win under Roberto De Zerbi during the run-in after he struck late against Wolves.
That victory at the Molinuex would go on to spark a four-game unbeaten run for Tottenham, one that included a 2-1 win over Aston Villa, in which Palhinha impressed alongside Rodrigo Bentancur.
In the final match of the season, with Tottenham aiming to secure their Premier League status by avoiding a defeat, Palhinha was once again on target, scoring from a corner to hand all three points against Everton.
Joao Palhinha’s stats boost Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham transfer plan
Not only was Palhinha on target in that match, but his overall performance against David Moyes’ side showed he left everything on the pitch to ensure Spurs stayed up.
Alongside his goal, Palhinha was the highest-rated player on the pitch, receiving an 8.9 match rating on FotMob. The 30-year-old was also full of running, covering virtually every blade of grass according to his heat map.
Palhinha also registered the most shots (5), the most defensive contributions (17) and the most touches (87), underlining his all-action display in midfield. It comes as no surprise that De Zerbi is keen to sign him permanently this summer.
| Statistic | Output |
|---|---|
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Accurate passes | 44/51 (86%) |
| Chances created | 2 |
| Shots on target | 1 |
| Shots off target | 2 |
| Blocked shots | 2 |
| Shot accuracy | 1/3 (33%) |
| Big chances missed | 1 |
| Hit woodwork | 1 |
| Touches | 87 |
| Touches in opposition box | 4 |
| Successful dribbles | 1/2 (50%) |
| Passes into final third | 5 |
| Accurate long balls | 2/4 (50%) |
| Dispossessed | 2 |
| Defensive contributions | 17 |
| Tackles | 4 |
| Blocks | 1 |
| Clearances | 5 |
| Headed clearances | 5 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Recoveries | 5 |
| Dribbled past | 0 |
| Ground duels won | 10/13 (77%) |
Spurs weigh up Joao Palhinha transfer decision after Everton display
With the Portuguese playing a crucial role in Tottenham’s survival fight, Spurs will now have to make a decision on whether to sign the 30-year-old permanently.
Following the Everton game, De Zerbi made it clear that Spurs need to begin a rebuild and suggested there are at least 12 players who could remain in north London.
Given he has already confirmed his desire to keep Palhinha next season, the midfielder is expected to be part of that core group.
However, Spurs must now decide whether to activate the £26million buy option in Palhinha’s contract or attempt to negotiate a discount. Spurs Web has since reported that Tottenham will seek a reduced fee to complete the deal.