Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly advancing on a deal to sign Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha, as per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Despite winning the Europa League title last term, the Lilywhites decided to part ways with Ange Postecoglou, mainly because they finished 17th in the Premier League.
Thomas Frank has been appointed as the new manager, and Mohammad Kudus has been the only new acquisition Spurs have made thus far this summer.
However, Frank isn’t entirely happy with his squad and has said in his press conference that they are exploring the market to reinforce before the start of next season.
Now, on X, Romano says that Tottenham want a new midfielder and have identified Palhinha as a serious target. They have been ‘in contact’ with the player’s representatives over the last two weeks to persuade him to join, and have agreed on personal terms with him. He is ‘keen’ on returning to the Premier League to play regularly next season.
The North London club have reached ‘advanced’ negotiations with Bayern Munich to seal the deal on loan, plus an option to make the move permanent next summer.
Romano wrote:
Tottenham have agreed personal terms with João Palhinha and are in advanced talks with Bayern. Initial loan for Palhinha… and understand the agreement will also include a 𝐛𝐮𝐲 𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞, not mandatory. Spurs will cover his salary, deal at final stages.
Palhinha to Tottenham
The 30-year-old, valued at around £26m by Transfermarkt, displayed impressive performances for Fulham, and following that, Bayern Munich decided to purchase him last summer.
However, he struggled to find regular game time last term. Considering the World Cup will be next summer, he wants to play regularly next season to secure his place in the Portugal squad for the competition.
With Yves Bissouma linked with a move away, Spurs are looking to reinforce the midfield department this summer. They have qualified for the Champions League by winning the Europa League, so they need proper depth in every department to perform well in all competitions.
Frank is likely to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, and Palhinha would be an excellent option for one of the midfield pivot roles. Therefore, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Tottenham should they eventually manage to secure his service.
