Tottenham chasing veteran Bayern Munich midfielder could scupper transfer plans for €30m summer loanee

Tottenham have a huge decision to make regarding Joao Palhinha’s future in the coming months.

Tottenham made a notable impact in the transfer window last summer as they sought to build on their Europa League success. The Lilywhites brought in eight new players to give themselves the best possible chance of closing the gap on their rivals and competing at the top end of the league table. The North Londoners ended up spending heavily on several additions, but it was summer loanee Joao Palhinha who particularly caught the eye of the supporters.

Many fans were surprised when Spurs announced his arrival on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich. He was viewed as a player who had struggled to make his mark in the Bundesliga and was perhaps past his peak to play a key role for a top Premier League side once again. However, credit to the 30-year-old, he kept his head down at N17 and emerged as one of the standout performers for the Lilywhites during the first half of the season.

At one stage, Palhinha was making a significant impact at both ends of the pitch for the North Londoners. It is fair to say that his presence in midfield provided Spurs with greater control and authority. He did not shy away from responsibility, often stepping up when things were not going the club’s way, clearly demonstrating that he cares deeply about the badge.

Tottenham might not opt to sign Joao Palhinha in the summer

It goes without saying that Thomas Frank was a strong supporter of Joao Palhinha during the Dane’s time at N17. The former Brentford boss consistently relied on the 30-year-old in big matches, and he was often among the first names on the team sheet during the opening months of the campaign. However, Frank’s dismissal could prove problematic for Palhinha as he looks to secure a permanent move to the North London club.

Recent reports suggest that Spurs are willing to sign Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka in the summer. The Germany international is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, with neither the player nor Bayern showing any indication of extending his stay at the Allianz Arena. As a result, the Lilywhites see this as an ideal opportunity to add Goretzka to their squad on a free transfer, believing that the experienced midfielder would bring leadership and help instil a winning culture in the dressing room.

As per Sport BILD (via Sport Witness), such a move could derail the North London club’s plans to sign Joao Palhinha on a permanent deal. Spurs have an option to make the 30-year-old’s loan move permanent for €30m, a fee they may be reluctant to pay if a player with similar qualities is available on a free transfer. The Lilywhites reportedly feel that Palhinha offers little resale value and are considering sending him back to Bayern Munich once the season concludes.

In truth, this may not be a move Spurs should pursue if they are serious about closing the gap on their rivals next season. Leon Goretzka is not the same player he was during his early years at Bayern Munich. He has become injury prone and may not possess the stamina required to start week in, week out in the Premier League. He could struggle to make a consistent impact in midfield. Moreover, he is arguably not as effective as Palhinha at both ends of the pitch, which makes it difficult for supporters to understand why the Lilywhites would consider breaking their wage structure to sign him.