Tottenham Hotspur want to sign Joao Palhinha on a permanent deal from Bayern Munich
Tottenham’s midfield sorely lacked composure and physical presence last season as the club endured one of its worst-ever Premier League campaigns. The Lilywhites were often overrun in the middle of the park, with Ange Postecoglou lacking a single player capable of breaking up opposition play or shielding the backline. This was one of the major reasons why Postecoglou eventually lost his job, despite the team’s Europa League success.
Determined not to repeat the same mistake, Tottenham backed new manager Thomas Frank in the summer transfer window by securing the services of Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich. Signing the 30-year-old on an initial loan has already proven to be a masterstroke. He has quickly become one of the first names on Frank’s team sheet, underlining his importance to the side.
Like a duck to water, Palhinha has seamlessly re-adapted to Premier League football. The Portuguese international has been immense for Spurs, adding much-needed physicality and balance in midfield. To everyone’s surprise, he has also introduced a new dimension to his game by contributing in the final third. Goals against Manchester City, Wolves, and Doncaster Rovers serve as proof that he is evolving into a more complete player.
Joao Palhinha has settled in well at Tottenham
Palhinha is rapidly showing why he is regarded as one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League this season. His ability to anchor the midfield single-handedly and provide defensive cover has been a key factor behind Tottenham’s impressive start to the campaign. His immediate impact has already made him a fan favourite at N17.
Alasdair Gold seems to believe Spurs have struck gold by landing Joao Palhinha on a bargain deal in the summer. Writing for Football.London, Gold said,
“One of the bargains of the summer transfer window and he’s been pivotal to Spurs playing well with his assured, combative displays in anchoring the midfield. The Portuguese has appeared in all 11 games and scored three goals, which has been an unexpected bonus with important strikes at Manchester City, against Wolves and that acrobatic effort against Doncaster.”
As Gold rightly points out, Palhinha has effortlessly anchored Tottenham’s midfield this season. His game intelligence and ability to intercept second balls have made the Lilywhites thrive during transitions. Moreover, his goal contributions have often come at crucial moments, rescuing Thomas Frank’s side when needed most.
It’s no surprise that Spurs are already in talks with Bayern Munich to make Palhinha’s move permanent. The midfielder has demonstrated exactly what he brings to the team, making the decision a no-brainer for the North London club. The Portugal international is also reportedly keen to extend his stay at N17 and continue developing under Thomas Frank.
