Spurs Eye Move for Joao Palhinha with Bayern Open to Cut-Price Deal

Tottenham Hotspur are looking to make a move in the transfer market, with Bayern Munich's João Palhinha emerging as a target. According to The Telegraph, Spurs are actively working on a deal to bring the Portuguese midfielder back to the Premier League, just a year after he made a high-profile switch from Fulham to Bayern for €51 million.

Palhinha's time in Germany hasn't quite gone according to plan. He managed just six starts during his debut season at the Allianz Arena, with injuries playing a big part in limiting his impact. That lack of playing time, combined with Bayern’s ongoing squad reshuffle, has opened the door for a potential exit. Now 30, Palhinha could be allowed to leave if the right offer arrives—and Spurs seem ready to test Bayern’s resolve. 

The north London side are expected to delay any formal approach until after their upcoming pre-season tour of Asia, which kicks off Sunday. Tottenham are keen to offload one of their own midfielders first, with Yves Bissouma seen as the most likely to make way. The Malian international has just one year left on his contract, and with no renewal in sight, Spurs may look to cash in before the window closes. 

Despite his age, Palhinha still brings plenty of Premier League experience and a commanding presence in midfield—qualities Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou could certainly use. That said, the move would be a break from Tottenham’s usual transfer strategy. The club hasn’t spent money on a player aged 30 or above since they signed Fernando Llorente from Swansea in 2017. 

What makes this deal more interesting is Bayern’s willingness to take a hit on their initial investment. With Palhinha’s market value declining due to his injuries and limited involvement, the Bundesliga giants are left in a tough spot: either let him go now for a reduced fee or risk losing even more value if things don’t improve next season. 

Spurs have already had a busy summer window. They've confirmed permanent deals for Kevin Danso, Mathys Tel, and Luka Vuskovic. Mohammed Kudus and Kota Takai have also joined, while the club has triggered Morgan Gibbs-White’s £60 million release clause. However, Nottingham Forest are reportedly trying to block that move from going through. 

With two pre-season matches on Saturday—one against Wycombe at Hotspur Way and another versus Luton Town at Kenilworth Road—Tottenham’s preparations are well underway. Whether Palhinha joins the squad later this summer remains to be seen, but the signs are pointing to a move that could soon become a reality.  

Also Read: Juventus Turn Down Chelsea's Big-Money Bid for Kenan Yildiz