TBR Football understands that Joao Palhinha has agreed in principle to join Tottenham Hotspur and talks with Bayern Munich are now underway.
Palhinha wants to return to London following what has been a tricky spell in Munich, struggling to break into Vincent Kompany’s side.
TBR Football first revealed Tottenham’s admiration for Palhinha three weeks ago, and now the Lilywhites have firmed up their interest in the deal.
Tottenham believe Palhinha is a good fit for Thomas Frank’s team and have started pressing ahead with plans to bring the 30-year-old to North London.
Sources: Tottenham and Bayern Munich have a good relationship
Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich have now started discussing a deal for Joao Palhinha, with the structure yet to be finalised.
Currently, a loan deal is the point of discussion with Spurs taking the midfielder’s full wages and the possibility of a buy option being included.
TBR Football’s chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey, has been told that Spurs and Bayern share a very good relationship following deals for Harry Kane and Mathys Tel. Therefore, negotiations should run smoothly.
Bayern paid £47m for Palhinha last summer from Fulham, but the move hasn’t gone to plan with the midfielder making just 17 Bundesliga appearances.
He played just 45 minutes at the FIFA Club World Cup over the summer, which was quite a telling sign for how Kompany views him.
During his time in West London, the Portuguese international was excellent, attracting interest from Arsenal and Liverpool before opting to sign for the Bavarians.
Frank has already approved Spurs’ move for the player, with the Danish head coach having been keen to add a new number six option.
Tottenham are working to sell Yves Bissouma
Tottenham are happy to press ahead with plans for Palhinha as there is a belief that one of their current options will eventually be sold.
At this stage, Fabio Paratici is working to sell Yves Bissouma, having been offering him around to various clubs.
Juventus are one of the teams that have been presented with the chance to sign the 28-year-old, although their priorities lie elsewhere for now. West Ham United are also keeping tabs on him.