Joao Palhinha faces a big decision over his Tottenham future after Roberto De Zerbi made it clear that he wants the midfielder to stay.
Tottenham have the option to sign Palhinha permanently for £22m at the end of his loan spell this summer, and there has been plenty of speculation about whether the Lilywhites will take up that option.
That speculation was put to rest a few days ago by De Zerbi, who made it clear he wants the 30-year-old to be at Spurs next season.
However, it may not be straightforward for the Premier League side to complete a deal for the Portugal international as the interest in him continues to grow ahead of the summer window.
Joao Palhinha’s personal considerations may dent Tottenham’s chances of a deal
Spurs Web previously relayed a report from Portugal which claimed that Sporting Lisbon are keen on re-signing Palhinha this summer, having identified him as one of their top targets.
New updates from A Bola and Correio da Manha Weekend (as relayed by Sport Witness) have now also confirmed Sporting’s interest in the 30-year-old.
It is revealed that Palhinha wants to return to Portugal to be close to his children following his recent divorce.
Sporting want to take advantage of this desire and take the midfielder back home, with the club seeing him as a tempting business opportunity.
It is revealed that Palhinha is also attracting interest from Benfica, but he would prefer to return to the Jose Alvalade Stadium.
Spurs seeking a discount from Bayern Munich for Palhinha
Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg suggested recently that Spurs are expected to ask for a discount from Bayern for Palhinha this summer, as they do not want to pay £22m for his services.
This was also backed up by Pete O’Rourke, who claimed that Tottenham can renegotiate their buy option for the midfielder if they stay up.
Contrary to reports from Portugal, journalist Ben Jacobs said a couple of days ago that Palhinha is keen on staying at Spurs, adding that the Portuguese international is willing to move to N17 even if the club get relegated.