João Palhinha closer to Sporting after decision in England | OneFootball

João Palhinha continues to move closer to a return to Sporting, and the next few days could prove decisive in the outcome of one of the most important dossiers in the Lions’ transfer market. The process has entered a new phase, and the green-and-white officials are preparing to begin direct negotiations with Bayern Munich.

According to newspaper A Bola, Sporting had so far been waiting for the Portuguese international’s situation at Tottenham to be clarified, the club where he played on loan last season. The London side have a purchase option set at €30 million, but the deadline to activate it expires this Sunday and everything indicates that it will not be exercised.

Palhinha’s position has been decisive throughout the entire process. The 30-year-old midfielder wants to return to Lisbon for family reasons and remains intent on wearing the Sporting shirt again. Despite the good relationship he built at Tottenham and the admiration he has for Roberto De Zerbi, the player has already decided what he wants the next chapter of his career to be.

With the English scenario practically ruled out, Sporting is preparing to open formal talks with Bayern. The solution on the table is a loan deal with initial costs, accompanied by a mandatory purchase clause. Even so, the financial details of the operation still require detailed negotiations between all parties.

One of the factors reinforcing Sporting’s optimism is the player’s willingness to help make the deal happen. Palhinha currently earns around €9 million gross per season in Germany, but he is willing to significantly reduce his salary to complete his return to Alvalade. The length of the contract is also not an obstacle, with the midfielder accepting a three-season deal, possibly with an option for a further year.

Talks with Bayern are expected to be led by Bernardo Palmeiro, Sporting’s general director of football, who has maintained a close relationship with the Bavarian officials since Palhinha’s own transfer from Fulham to Munich. Even so, the process may not be resolved immediately, since the German structure involves several decision-makers, even after Vincent Kompany made it clear that he does not count on the Portuguese international for next season.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.