Tottenham Hotspur are wasting no time in laying the groundwork for a massive summer overhaul. Their first point of action seems to be holding on to one of their players.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha has officially handed Tottenham priority over any other suitors this summer, fueled by his short working relationship with manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Palhinha, who spent the latter half of the campaign on loan in north London from Bayern Munich, became an instant fan favourite for his tireless work ethic and anchoring presence in the engine room. While speculation had grown about a potential return to his homeland, Romano’s latest update clarifies that the 30-year-old’s heart is set on a permanent stay in N17.
Palhinha staying at Spurs
Writing on his official X account, Fabrizio Romano reported that the connection between player and manager is the driving force behind the decision:
“Joao Palhinha gives priority to Tottenham as the feeling with Roberto De Zerbi is very good.”
The deal is not entirely over the line just yet. While Palhinha has made his preference clear, Spurs must still iron out the final financial terms with Bayern Munich to make the stay permanent.
Should negotiations hit an unexpected roadblock, a major European suitor is already waiting in the wings to disrupt the transfer. Romano added:
“If deal can’t be agreed with Spurs, Sporting are keen and ready to act but (Tottenham) are the priority for Joao.”
Get it done
Sporting CP’s lingering presence means Spurs chiefs cannot afford to drag their feet in the boardroom. Securing an elite defensive midfielder who already knows De Zerbi’s tactical system inside out would represent an incredibly smart, high-impact start to the window.
With Palhinha desperate to stay and anchor the midfield reset, the ball is now firmly in Tottenham’s court to get the paperwork signed and officially kickstart their summer business.
