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Tottenham are ready to fight hard for 30-year-old Bundesliga midfielder

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 6:20 PM ET

Tottenham Hotspur eyeing summer move for Bayern Munich star Joao Palhinha

Joao Palhinha seems to be living out his last days in Germany. His time at Bayern Munich has become a story of disenchantment and wasted opportunities. At 30, the Portuguese feels he needs to return to an environment where he can shine. England knows him well. He made his mark there with his physical displays, ability to win back balls in the midfield and his mettle when he played for Fulham. Now, several Premier League clubs are keeping an eye on him. Among them, Tottenham are showing clear signs of being ready to make a move. The situation does not leave room for long waits as Bayern are demanding a definitive sale.

Tottenham keen to add muscle and mettle

According to CaughtOffside, Tottenham are among the interested parties who have reactivated contacts to explore the possible arrival of Palhinha this summer. We talked about Spurs interest in one of our earlier reports as well. Spurs see the Portuguese as a remedy to the defensive fragility that has disrupted the stability in their midfield at times. The midfielder sees a return as feasible, as he is no longer part of Kompany’s project. Manchester United are also insisting and brought an idea of a loan arrangement which the German club rejected outright, but Tottenham are hoping to overtake them by taking advantage of their good relationship. The operation would be between €30-35 million. Meanwhile, Fulham and West Ham are watching closely, although Spurs have sporting arguments that seduce the player. We recently covered how Spurs podcast Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham has backed the North Londoners to make a move for Palhinha.

A key player or an unnecessary risk?

Palhinha’s possible arrival at Tottenham opens up several interesting issues. On the one hand, his ability to steal balls, protect the backline and offer a clean start from the back fits with the idea of strengthening the core of the team. However, he has a history of minor injuries that raises concerns. In addition, the defensive midfielder’s intense, physical style could wear thin quickly if not managed well. Spurs need a midfielder who will play 35 games without a hitch, not another signing who will spend more time recovering.

Another topic of concern is his age. Palhinha turns 31 soon. For a team that boasts of a long-term project, betting on someone who has already passed the 30 barrier is not always convincing. However, the Premier League is won on solidity, and Thomas Frank’s side know that their midfield suffers when there is no leader in the centre circle. A motivated Portuguese, with unfinished business, could provide that extra bit of competitiveness.

The price seems fair if he maintains his level. It wouldn’t be a media coup, but it would be a functional signing. If Tottenham tie up the operation quickly, they will avoid the entry of other suitors such as Brighton or Aston Villa, which could inflate the bidding. If the management decides to take a gamble, they will have to surround him well. An overloaded Palhinha ends up being a problem. With balance, he could be the perfect hinge to support Spurs’ plan. Palhinha’s signing would be pragmatic, not flashy, but sometimes winning ugly points is what separates those who fight for titles from those who only come close.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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