Next report: Spurs could send Palhinha back to Bayern | OneFootball

The loan of Joao Palhinha to Tottenham Hotspur is apparently taking a new turn. As talkSPORT in England reports, Spurs are still undecided as to whether they should sign the Portuguese international permanently in the summer. As a result, a return of the 30-year-old to FC Bayern is becoming increasingly likely

Tottenham have a purchase option worth around €30 million, which would allow Palhinha to stay in north London permanently after the end of the season. However, there are currently many indications that the Londoners will not make use of this option. According to information from talkSPORT, there are renewed internal discussions as to whether the defensive midfielder really fits into their long-term plans, both in sporting and structural terms

This confirms a trend that has been emerging for weeks. TEAMtalk had previously reported that there are doubts at Spurs about a permanent Palhinha signing. Although Palhinha has impressed at times and brought his well-known strength in tackles, tactical doubts remain under coach Thomas Frank. The balance in midfield in particular is seen as a sticking point. The combination with Rodrigo Bentancur is seen internally as too static and defensive, which does not ideally suit the desired style of play

Added to this is the strong competition in the Tottenham squad. With talents such as Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall, the club is increasingly relying on younger, more dynamic players who are expected to play bigger roles in the medium term. This strategic orientation also reduces Palhinha’s prospects. As a result, the Portuguese has often only been on the bench recently

FC Bayern no longer planning with Palhinha

The development is not unproblematic for FC Bayern. Palhinha moved to England in the summer with clear ideas, also in order to establish himself permanently in the Premier League. At Säbener Straße, however, he no longer plays a role in the long-term plans. The Munich club had hoped for a permanent sale in order to free up squad places and salary scope

photo: IMAGO

Should Tottenham actually allow the purchase option to expire, Palhinha would initially return to Munich in the summer. Bayern would then once again be faced with the task of finding a buyer for the defensive midfielder – or developing a new solution for his future in the short term. However, the signs are currently growing stronger: a permanent future at Spurs is anything but certain.