Tottenham Hotspur have received some mixed news about Joao Palhinha after his goal ensured that the Lilywhites avoided relegation from the Premier League.
The Portugal international has stepped up and delivered at a crucial time for Roberto De Zerbi’s side, with his performances and goals playing a key part in ensuring the Lilywhites avoided the ultimate disaster.
After the win over Everton, De Zerbi once again reiterated that he wants Palhinha to be at Tottenham next season.
However, the speculation linking the Spurs man with a move to Sporting Lisbon shows no signs of stopping, and there have been other worrying updates about his future.
Sporting Lisbon expect to beat Tottenham to Joao Palhinha
According to a report in Record (as relayed by Sport Witness), Sporting Lisbon are now closing in on the signing of BK Hacken midfielder Silas Andersen.
However, Andersen is not seen as an alternative to Palhinha, but rather as someone who would complement the 30-year-old well in the middle of the park.
The outlet says that the Portuguese club are planning for next season with the assumption that their former player would return to the club.
The Sporting hierarchy continues to view the Bayern Munich-owned player as the ‘ideal replacement’ for Morten Hjulmand, who is expected to leave the club this summer.
However, Palhinha did admit this week that he wants to remain at Tottenham beyond the summer. So, it remains to be seen whether Spurs can agree on terms of a stay.
Sporting have begun negotiations with Bayern Munich over Palhinha
Sport Witness also relays another update from A Bola, which claims that Tottenham Hotspur may decide against activating the €30m (£25.8m) option to buy the former Fulham man.
It is alleged that the Lisbon side have already started discussions with Bayern over a loan deal for Palhinha with an option to buy.
Sporting president Frederico Varandas is said to be working hard behind the scenes to facilitate the midfielder’s return to the Jose Alvalade Stadium.