Tottenham Hotspur on the verge of sealing loan move for Joao Palhinha | OneFootball

Tottenham Hotspur are close to completing a loan deal for Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich, according to Sky Germany.

The 30-year-old, who joined Bayern from Fulham last summer in a €51 million transfer, has struggled for consistent playing time in Germany.

He made just 25 appearances and started only 10 matches across all competitions under manager Vincent Kompany.

Known for his robust tackling and defensive solidity, Palhinha’s return to London would be a shrewd move for Spurs as they prepare for Champions League football next season.

Palhinha’s ability to break up opposition play and recycle possession will allow creative teammates James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski more freedom to operate higher up the pitch.

Additionally, his familiarity with English football – having excelled in two full Premier League seasons at Fulham – means he can adapt quickly and slot into the team with minimal adjustment time.

Palhinha proved his Premier League pedigree during his two-year stint at Fulham. He made 79 appearances and earned Player of the Season honours in the 2022/23 campaign.

A loan move for Palhinha would mark Tottenham’s second significant deal with Bayern this summer.

They recently completed the permanent signing of forward Mathys Tel following his initial loan spell during the second half of last season.

Palhinha is reportedly open to joining Tottenham on a permanent deal, and it remains to be seen if his impending loan move will include an option or obligation to buy.