Tottenham fans are calling for signings with just over a week until the transfer deadline, but the 2-0 win over Manchester City proved Thomas Frank already has plenty of talented players.
The likes of Mohammed Kudus – who impressed Spurs fans – and Pape Sarr stood out as Tottenham once again tasted victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Thomas Frank also had plenty of praise to aim at Joao Palhinha before and after the impressive win, and Tottenham have a real opportunity on their hands with the Portugal international.
Thomas Frank says Joao Palhinha is a “top player”
Speaking before the 2-0 win, the Dane told TNT Sports: “Palhinha, I think, is a top player. I’m very happy that we signed him.
“His defensive mindset and abilities to win 50/50 duels, but also to progress up the pitch with possession will be key.”
Palhinha then proceeded to deliver a Man of the Match display – earning the highest rating on Sofascore (8.4) of any player on the pitch.
The new Tottenham No.6 – on loan from Bayern Munich for the season – scored the second for Spurs, also completing 21 of his attempted 26 passes and winning six ground duels in his 89 minutes on the pitch.
After watching this heroic display, Frank said: “What is 100% sure is that we brought in two top players into the club – Kudus and Palhinha. Both of them performed very well, which I’m very pleased with. Palhinha, wow!
“Sometimes players need confidence to be on top. I still don’t think he’s fully fit yet, where I want him to be. But, very pleased with his performance and he’s definitely helping the team.”
Tottenham can sign Joao Palhinha on a permanent basis for just £27m
Spurs smartly negotiated an option to buy Palhinha permanently for £27m once his loan spell expires at the end of the season, and that fee is already starting to look like it could be a bargain.
The man born in Lisbon is now admittedly into his thirties – having turned 30 in July – although he should still prove to be good value for money if that clause is triggered, as his best traits are not exactly dependent on speed.
Palhinha – considered one of the best in the world during his time at Fulham – instead uses his experience and footballing intelligence to be one step ahead of his opponents.
Having an impactful No.6 at the base of midfield is very important in the modern era, a point emphasised by the fact Chelsea spent £115m to sign Moises Caicedo – while Arsenal paid £60m for Martin Zubimendi.
It is worth remembering Bayern Munich also paid £47m to take Palhinha from Fulham as recently as last summer, so £27m for his signature could prove to be superb business.