Tottenham Hotspur have intensified their pursuit of Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha, holding a fresh round of discussions with the Portuguese international within the last week, sources have confirmed. This latest development signals Spurs’ continued ambition to bolster their midfield ahead of the new Premier League season, with the club seeing Palhinha as a key target to enhance their squad depth and defensive solidity.
Palhinha, 29, only joined Bayern Munich from Fulham in 2023 in a €65 million move, but his future in Bavaria is now uncertain following a mixed debut season in the Bundesliga. Although the midfielder impressed with his physicality and defensive work rate, Bayern’s managerial shake-up and evolving squad plans have led to questions over his long-term role at the club.
According to insiders close to the negotiations, Tottenham have been in contact with Palhinha’s representatives and Bayern Munich officials in recent days to explore the terms of a potential deal. Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou is believed to be a long-time admirer of Palhinha’s qualities and views him as an ideal partner for Yves Bissouma or Rodrigo Bentancur in the heart of midfield.
What may work in Tottenham’s favour is Palhinha’s own openness to a return to London, where he previously thrived during his two-year spell at Fulham. The Portuguese star is said to have enjoyed life in the English capital and is receptive to the idea of reigniting his Premier League career with a more ambitious club.
In addition to Tottenham, Italian giants Inter Milan have also expressed strong interest in Palhinha. However, reports suggest that the player is leaning towards a move back to England rather than heading to Serie A. The preference for London could prove pivotal in Tottenham’s efforts to fend off European competition for his signature.
Negotiations are still at an early stage, and Bayern are expected to demand a fee close to what they paid Fulham last summer. It remains to be seen whether Spurs are willing to meet that valuation or will attempt to negotiate a lower price, potentially by including performance-based add-ons or players in a swap deal.
Tottenham have already been active in the transfer market this summer, reinforcing their squad as they prepare for European competition next season. However, securing a player of Palhinha’s calibre would represent a significant statement of intent and address a key area that has lacked consistency in recent seasons.
While no deal is imminent at this stage, the progress in talks and Palhinha’s reported interest in a return to London suggest that a move could be on the horizon. Tottenham fans will now be watching closely as the club seeks to land one of Europe’s most highly regarded defensive midfielders.
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