At a glance:
- Joao Palhinha currently on loan from Bayern
- Midfielder scored vs Wolves
- De Zerbi clearly a big fan of him
Joao Palhinha’s future has emerged as a major talking point in recent weeks as his Tottenham loan spell edges closer to completion.
The Portuguese midfielder joined on a season-long loan deal from Bayern Munich under Thomas Frank. He has scored a few crucial goals for the club and has been a reliable presence in the middle of the park.
Earlier this month, reports emerged that Tottenham wouldn’t sign Palhinha permanently under the current terms. However, they could be tempted to do a deal if Bayern Munich lower their £22m asking price.
And now, Roberto De Zerbi has made a definitive claim on whether Tottenham would like to sign him.
Tottenham want to sign Palhinha permanently
Palhinha knows the Premier League inside out due to his stint with Fulham and is an experienced campaigner for club and country.
He scored the winning goal against Wolves and fared quite well against Aston Villa as Tottenham dominated the game to secure all three points.
Palhinha isn’t against staying at Tottenham even if they get relegated, which is a sign that he really likes working with De Zerbi.
And now, the Italian has sung the midfielder’s praises, confirming that he is the kind of player he wants to have at Tottenham.
When asked if the midfielder is a player he likes, the Italian replied, “100%. We have to start with this type of person. More than players, we need reliable people and players and Palhinha is one of the best, as a player for sure but as a guy.
“I want to see players have the same personality, attitude and spirit and we’re lucky to have him.”
Good deal for Tottenham
Palhinha isn’t a game-changer by any stretch of the imagination, but he is a steady Eddie, and that is exactly what Tottenham need.
He breaks up play effectively and his work rate is unquestionable, as he showed against Aston Villa.
More than anything, he is an experienced figure who clearly loves the club despite being on loan.
And if De Zerbi is a fan of the player, Tottenham need to do whatever it takes to keep him permanently, as they need to back their manager.
Regardless of what happens, Palhinha is set to be a key player for the club between now and the end of the season.
