Joao Palhinha’s future at Tottenham Hotspur remains uncertain ahead of the transfer window opening in June, with growing interest from Portugal threatening Spurs’ hopes of keeping the midfielder beyond his loan spell.
Joao Palhinha’s future at Tottenham Hotspur continues to remain uncertain ahead of the transfer window opening in June.
The Bayern Munich loanee endured a mixed campaign at Tottenham, impressing at times while also struggling for consistency.
However, in the final weeks under Roberto De Zerbi, he showed the fight and energy that helped Spurs over the line in their relegation battle.
Spurs hold a £26m option to buy Palhinha permanently, while De Zerbi has repeatedly stated that he wants Tottenham to sign the Bayern Munich midfielder.
However, Tottenham are now in a battle with Sporting, who are keen to bring Palhinha back to Portugal as they look to rebuild their midfield.
Tottenham powerless as Joao Palhinha nears Sporting agreement
Spurs Web reported that Tottenham’s Premier League status dealt a major blow to Sporting’s pursuit of Palhinha.
The Bayern Munich midfielder previously hinted that he wanted to remain at Tottenham. However, in recent weeks, with his future still unresolved, his messages have been more mixed.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Sporting and Palhinha are now said to be “practically” in agreement on the personal terms of a return to Alvalade, following fresh progress in talks in recent days.
It is explained that obstacles relating to his salary and desire to return to Portugal have been resolved, with the Champions League quarter-finalists now looking to advance discussions.
Bayern Munich hold key to Joao Palhinha transfer
The next obstacle, though is convincing Bayern Munich to agree to a sale of the tireless 30-year-old midfielder.
It is claimed that the financial reality remains the biggest challenge facing Sporting, who have already started working on what is described as a financial structure capable of bringing Bayern to the table.
A loan deal with an option to buy remains the Portuguese club’s preferred solution, and it continues to be viewed internally as the most realistic route.
A Bola further claims that initial steps have already been taken, with discussions aimed at finding common ground with the German club.