The timeline for when Joao Palhinha is expected to make a decision on his future has now emerged amid interest from Sporting CP and Tottenham.
The transfer window in England is yet to open, but that has not prevented the Tottenham Hotspur rumour mill from gathering pace.
Thus far, Spurs have been heavily linked with the likes of Hayden Hackney and Savinho, while also reaching agreements with Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson as they look to shape their squad in the mould of new boss Roberto De Zerbi.
However, loan signing Joao Palhinha also has his future up in the air after a largely impressive campaign in north London, which saw him score seven goals and help keep Tottenham in the division.
Tottenham await Joao Palhinha transfer decision
Spurs Web has since reported on the future of the 30-year-old midfielder, revealing that Sporting CP are also keen on signing Palhinha this summer.
We also relayed reports claiming that Spurs are opting against taking up the £26m option-to-buy clause inserted into the deal when Palhinha joined on loan.
However, while it was initially believed that Palhinha was set to move to Sporting, Spurs Web reported yesterday that the Portuguese international is expected to prioritise a move to Tottenham instead.
Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas has now revealed when Palhinha is expected to make a decision regarding his future, with the journalist stating that both Tottenham and Sporting can expect an answer from the defensive midfielder within the next week or so.
Spurs face Joao Palhinha’s contract clause deadline
While Palhinha remains keen on a Tottenham move, Spurs have limited time to act, with their option-to-buy clause set to expire today.
That means Tottenham will be forced to renegotiate terms with Bayern Munich should they pursue the midfielder without the clause in place.
We reported previously that Spurs were looking to negotiate a discount for the 30-year-old, and it now remains to be seen whether that will materialise with his £26m clause expiring.
Spurs have also been linked with a move for Hayden Hackney, who is expected to cost a similar fee and has just 12 months remaining on his contract.
However, competition for the Middlesbrough midfielder’s signature remains high, with Everton currently leading the race to sign Hackney.