Sports Mole

Tottenham Hotspur will reportedly not be signing Joao Palhinha on a permanent basis.

On the final day of the season, the Portugal international scored the goal that secured Spurs' Premier League status with a 1-0 victory over Everton.

With the 30-year-old having emerged as a key player under Roberto De Zerbi, the expectation was that Spurs would take up an option that they possessed in their agreement with Bayern Munich.

Spurs were in a position where they could activate a €30m (£25.93m) buy clause for Palhinha by a certain date.

However, as per A BOLA, that option has not expired and Spurs will now not signing the player.

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Who are favourites to sign Joao Palhinha?

The report emphasises that Sporting Lisbon are now the favourites to secure a deal for Palhinha.

Furthermore, it is emphasised that Palhinha is eager to return to his former club, who he represented between 2016 and 2022, for personal reasons.

This may have played its part in Spurs failing to act when they had the opportunity to do so, subsequently leaving Sporting to bargain with Palhinha's parent club Bayern.

Palhinha will leave the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having contributed seven goals and three assists from 45 appearances in all competitions.

With two years left on his contract, Bayern will realistically look to generate the fee that they were anticipating that Spurs would pay.

Sporting will allegedly have to undertake "a lot of negotiation" to get a deal over the line.

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Palhinha exit a major blow for Spurs

While Palhinha did not start the early fixtures under De Zerbi, he completed 90 minutes on each occasion as Spurs earned seven points from games against Aston Villa, Leeds United and Everton.

Palhinha also scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory at Wolverhampton Wanderers in De Zerbi's third fixture.

Prior to the latest development, the Italian would have surely viewed Palhinha as one of his two central midfielders, and the North Londoners now face a battle to find a suitable alternative.

Liverpool struggled throughout 2025-26 after winning the Premier League just months prior, and the club finally made the decision to sack manager Arne Slot on Saturday.

The Reds boss managed to secure qualification to the Champions League, but it still seemed inevitable that he would depart after a slew of dire results towards the back end of the campaign.

Fans at Anfield - known for supporting their team and manager against the odds - booed the former Feyenoord coach on more than one occasion, and the atmosphere around the club had become increasingly toxic as the months wore on.

Here, after Slot was sacked, Sports Mole takes a look at five games that led to the Liverpool manager's departure.

Liverpool 1-4 PSV - November 26, 2025 (Champions League's league phase)

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Liverpool kicked off 2024-25 with a remarkable run of seven consecutive victories, the majority of which were earned by last-gasp heroics from the likes of Federico Chiesa, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.

However, when the Reds welcomed PSV Eindhoven to Anfield in November 2025 for a Champions League showdown, they headed into the game in shocking form.

A win was not a necessity that day, but being thrashed 4-1 by an Eredivisie side at Anfield - which is renowned as fortress the world over - was a humiliating and demoralising result.

Questions were already being asked about Slot's future when he recorded a run of six defeats in seven games a few weeks prior, but convincing wins against Aston Villa and Real Madrid in early November had quelled the noise.

Suffering a ninth loss in 12 games, though, and in such embarrassing fashion, only served to confirm the doubts that fans had about the boss.

Liverpool 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur - March 15, 2026 (Premier League)

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Unfortunately for Slot, he could not find the consistency needed to do so, and after a shocking 2-1 defeat against bottom-of-the-table Wolverhampton Wanderers on March 3, as well as a 1-0 loss in the first leg of the Champions League's round of 16 tie against Galatasaray, the Reds needed to find their feet against Tottenham Hotspur.

Igor Tudor was the man in the away dugout for Spurs that day, and after Liverpool conceded a 90th-minute equaliser from former Everton star Richarlison, the Anfield faithful were furious.

When the full-time whistle was blown, the crowd rang out with boos for the manager, the first prominent example of the animosity that had been brewing towards Slot spilling over into the Merseysiders' home ground.

As it turned out, Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Spurs in mid-March saw Tudor pick up the only point of his short-lived tenure with Tottenham, a damning indictment of the Reds' sullied standards.

Man City 4-0 Liverpool - April 4, 2026 (FA Cup quarter-final)

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The Merseysiders were able to overturn their deficit in the Champions League's round of 16 with an impressive 4-0 victory over Galatasaray on March 18, and the Salah-led performance seemed to indicate that the team had turned a corner.

However, that hope was snuffed out almost immediately as Liverpool were beaten 2-1 by Brighton & Hove Albion three days later, before heading to the Etihad Stadium for their FA Cup quarter-final against rivals Manchester City.

The Reds were the underdogs against Pep Guardiola's side, and morale was low, but few could have anticipated the manner in which Slot's side capitulated.

Liverpool's midfield was repeatedly torn apart, leaving the backline exposed to wave after wave of City attacks, while the frontline proved ineffectual once again.

The then-champions had suffered heavy defeats against the Sky Blues in the past under Jurgen Klopp, but it felt as though the XI on the pitch surrendered the contest, and it was admitted after the fact by captain Van Dijk that the players indeed 'gave up'.

Fans exited the stadium early after witnessing the torrid display, chanting for Xabi Alonso on their way out of the ground, and when Dominik Szoboszlai made a disrespectful gesture towards the away end at full-time, it was clear that the spirit of the club had been broken.

PSG 2-0 Liverpool - April 8, 2026 (Champions League quarter-final first leg)

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Mere days after the disaster at the Etihad, Liverpool were set to face the champions of Europe at the Parc des Princes, but rather than a fired-up performance to show some semblance of fight, supporters were treated to a cowardly showing.

Slot opted to utilise a three-man backline for the first time in his Reds career away to Paris Saint-Germain, and it felt as though the manager was aiming to avoid a thrashing that would do further damage to his reputation, rather than attempting to win the game.

To make space for the additional centre-back, Salah was dropped from the lineup, a move that would seem bizarre when his substitute appearance in the second leg saw the Egyptian play more balls into the box (12) and produce more expected assists (0.52) than any other player for either side across the entire 180 minute tie.

In the end, Liverpool's were still beaten 2-0 by PSG in the first leg, during which their overly defensive setup led to a putrid performance that generated zero shots on target.

Liverpool 1-1 Chelsea - May 9, 2026 (Premier League)

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Booed multiple times. First time that Chelsea outran an opponent in the Premier League this season. Slot out-coached by an unqualified interim manager.

Perhaps the straw that broke the camel's back, Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Chelsea on May 9 spurred the Anfield crowd to boo Slot multiple times, a reaction that led to shock and outrage from pundits such as Jamie Carragher.

The Reds were out of all cup competitions at this stage, and needed to guarantee Champions League football in order to fuel their summer transfer plans.

However, Slot was unable to get the better of a managerless Chelsea side, and appeared to be tactically outmatched by Calum McFarlane, the Blues' interim boss that had not even completed his UEFA coaching badges.

After an uninspiring first 67 minutes, the manager decided to take 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha off for Alexander Isak, and given that the teenager had been Liverpool's best player - and only spark - to that point, fans booed Slot.

To make their point known even more clearly, sections of the Anfield crowd chanted Ngumoha's name, highlighting that the object of their ire was Slot himself.

Fans were heard once again booing the manager at the full-time whistle, and after finishing the season with a four-game winless run - and taking the race for Champions League football to the final day - Slot did not join the goodbye lap around the pitch against Brentford, knowing that his relationship with the crowd was likely beyond repair.

Tottenham Hotspur and Roma are reportedly interested in signing West Ham United attacker Crysencio Summerville this summer.

Spurs are supposedly in the hunt for significant attacking reinforcements over the course of the off-season, with AC Milan and Mexico striker Santiago Gimenez said to be a potential North London arrival.

On the other side of the English capital, West Ham are gearing up for a spell in the Championship for the first time in over a decade, with the future of head coach Nuno Espirito Santo currently unclear.

Despite smashing Leeds United 3-0 on the final day of the Premier League season, the Hammers were sentenced to a 18th-placed finish, joining Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley in the second tier next term.

Roberto De Zerbi's Spurs momentarily dropped into the bottom three, but victories over Wolves, Aston Villa and Everton helped to seal the club's Premier League status for another season at least.

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Tottenham, Roma want West Ham star Summerville?

According to Dutch outlet Voetbal International, Summerville could be handed a Premier League lifeline this summer, just days after suffering relegation to the Championship at the London Stadium.

The report claims that fellow strugglers Tottenham are keen on securing the services of the 24-year-old during the off-season, after attempting to bring the attacker to North London during the winter trading point.

As well as De Zerbi's side, it is understood that Italian giants Roma are interested in Summerville, who netted five goals and provided two assists across 31 Premier League appearances this campaign.

Whilst believing in their ability to attract the forward to Stadio Olimpico, Roma are also keenly aware of the Premier League pull that Spurs can provide following their avoidance of relegation on the final day of the term.

Starting 29 top-flight games this season, Summerville is undoubtedly a key player for West Ham, who are preparing to lose a host of star men this summer ahead of their Championship return.

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Who else could leave West Ham this summer?

Arguably unfortunate to miss out on England's World Cup squad, Jarrod Bowen is the jewel in the crown at West Ham, often carrying the team on his back during recent Premier League struggles.

Turning 30 in late December, the right winger is at the peak of his transfer value and the Hammers need to raise funds amid declining revenue streams due to their loss of top-flight status.

Impressing during the second half of the season, attackers Valentin Castellanos and Pablo are likely to have suitors further up the footballing food chain during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur are exploring a surprise move for an international striker who was once regarded as one of Europe's most prolific goalscorers before enduring a difficult spell in Serie A.

Spurs are expected to strengthen their attacking options this summer, as Roberto De Zerbi prepares for his first full transfer window in north London after keeping the club up, with several targets under consideration.

One name now emerging on their radar is AC Milan forward Santiago Gimenez, who could be offered an escape route from Italy after a frustrating 18 months at the San Siro.

Spurs offer Santiago Gimenez escape route from AC Milan

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According to reports in Mexico, via Sport Witness, Tottenham have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Santiago Gimenez this summer.

The striker joined AC Milan from Feyenoord in January 2025 after establishing himself as one of Europe's most clinical finishers in the Eredivisie. However, things have not gone to plan in Italy.

Gimenez managed six goals and three assists during the second half of last season but struggled badly this term, scoring just once in all competitions while also battling an ankle injury that sidelined him for several months.

It is believed that the Mexico international is now open to leaving Milan in search of a fresh start, with Spurs among the clubs monitoring his situation.

The north Londoners could potentially secure a deal for around £30 million, a fee that was discussed when clubs like West Ham, Leeds United and Sunderland showed interest earlier this year.

Former Spurs star Kyle Walker is a big fan of Santiago Gimenez

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Former Tottenham defender Kyle Walker’s admiration for Santiago Gimenez speaks volumes.

Having worked closely with him at AC Milan, Walker views the Mexican striker as far more than a conventional No.9, praising his movement, creativity and relentless work rate.

His comparison to Julian Alvarez is telling, highlighting a forward who presses intelligently, links play selflessly and “can produce magic at any moment.”

Those qualities align perfectly with what De Zerbi demands from his attackers. Tottenham have long lacked a reliable focal point, and Gimenez offers a blend of intensity, technical quality and tactical discipline that fits the manager’s blueprint.

His ability to operate across the front line, press aggressively and knit together attacking moves would give Spurs a dimension they’ve been missing.

At around £30 million, the risk is minimal for a striker who has already proved his goalscoring pedigree at Feyenoord. If De Zerbi can unlock the version of Gimenez that terrorised the Eredivisie, Spurs could secure one of the smartest value signings of the summer.

Tottenham Hotspur are expected to add midfield reinforcements this summer, as manager Roberto De Zerbi continues shaping a squad capable of matching his high-intensity tactical demands.

Spurs have already been linked with several technically gifted young players across Europe, with the club keen to lower the average age of the squad while adding greater athleticism and mobility in central areas.

Now another emerging Ligue 1 talent has reportedly caught Tottenham’s attention, Lille midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau.

Tottenham join race to sign Lille midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau

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The north London outfit are among several Premier League clubs showing serious interest in Ngal’ayel Mukau after the Lille midfielder enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in France.

Reports now claim that Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton are currently among the clubs most actively monitoring the DR Congo international, while Brighton and Brentford have also carried out extensive scouting work.

The 21-year-old made 42 appearances across all competitions as Lille OSC secured a third-place finish in Ligue 1 and qualification for next season's Champions League.

Mukau has reportedly impressed recruiters with his energy, pressing ability and tactical flexibility, while his technical quality on the ball has also stood out during detailed analysis.

The left-footer is capable of operating as a defensive midfielder, deeper controller or in more advanced central roles, making him an attractive option for clubs seeking versatility in midfield.

Ngal’ayel Mukau could be Roberto De Zerbi's next Carlos Baleba at Spurs

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The comparison to Carlos Baleba feels impossible to ignore.

Mukau shows so many of the same traits that made Baleba such a perfect fit under De Zerbi at Brighton - the athleticism, the controlled aggression in duels, the composure on the ball and the ability to cover absurd amounts of ground without ever looking flustered.

Even Como scout Ben Mattinson admitted he got “Baleba vibes” watching Mukau, praising his all‑round profile and the way he influences games both defensively and technically.

And that’s exactly why Spurs’ interest makes so much sense.

De Zerbi’s teams rely on midfielders who can press with intensity without losing their tactical shape, while also being brave enough to progress possession under pressure. Mukau already looks like the kind of player who could grow into that role naturally.

At 21, he’s still raw in places, so nobody will expect him to dominate Premier League midfields from day one, but the foundations are undeniably strong.

For Spurs and their Italian head coach, this feels like the sort of signing that could quietly become one of the smartest moves of the summer, especially if Mukau develops along a similar trajectory to Baleba over the next few years.

The Sports Mole Cage 2026 moves into matchday two after a dramatic opening round set the tone for the competition, as the Atlas Tango convincingly defeated the Township Toros.

Inspired by the legendary Nike cage football era, the tournament throws 48 players into a fan-driven battle of trios where creativity, chemistry and personality matter just as much as results.

Now, Seoul Storm and Diamants Eclatants step into the cage for a matchup built around technical quality, explosive attacking play and individual brilliance.

World Cup 2026 The Cage: Introducing the teams

Seoul Storm arrive with balance, discipline and devastating attacking speed. Jeremy Doku brings fearless dribbling and chaos in one-on-one situations, Joshua Kimmich offers leadership and complete control in possession, while Son Heung-min - despite no longer being in his Tottenham Hotspur pomp - combines movement, finishing and relentless energy. Their style is built around quick transitions and non-stop pressure.

But Diamants Eclatants may have the most dangerous attacking trio in the tournament. Joao Neves provides composure and technical sharpness in midfield, Rayan Cherki delivers unpredictability and flair, while Premier League champion Bukayo Saka enters the cage as the headline act - dynamic, creative and capable of deciding any matchup with a single burst of brilliance. Saka’s intelligence and composure under pressure make him perfectly suited to cage football.

What is the Sports Mole Cage 2026?

Every clash in the Cage is decided by the fans.

Supporters can vote across Sports Mole’s social platforms and in the website comments section, where every touch, skill move and standout moment becomes part of the debate. The trio with the strongest overall performance advances to the next stage.

Matchday two is live - who deserves to move on?

Tottenham Hotspur have reached a verbal agreement to sign Andrew Robertson once his Liverpool contract expires in June despite Juventus' interest, the latest report has claimed.

Spurs clung onto their Premier League status in 2025-26, with their 17th-placed finish seeing them survive on the final day at the expense of West Ham United.

Boss Roberto De Zerbi faces a sizeable task this summer if he is to get the club back competing for the division's European spots, though he may be closing in on his first signing as head coach.

Liverpool left-back Robertson was reportedly a target for Spurs in January, with his contract having less than six months left to run at time.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now claimed that Tottenham have reached a verbal agreement with the 32-year-old despite a late attempt from Juventus to hijack the deal, with the left-back set to respect a winter pact he made with the Londoners.

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Andy Robertson to Tottenham: Why Liverpool legend makes sense

There is no doubt that Robertson has declined from the level he displayed under Jurgen Klopp in the late 2010s, but that does not mean he cannot be a valuable asset to Spurs.

Having someone who understands what it takes to compete at the very highest level could be beneficial to a dressing room that has dealt with relegation battles in consecutive seasons.

Robertson's ability to inspire, both on and off the pitch, may help De Zerbi instil the discipline needed in his squad ahead of what could be a season of rejuvenation.

Tottenham will also not be playing European football next term, and the left-back has shown that he is still able to contribute when his minutes are managed.

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Roberto De Zerbi rebuild: Positive signs for Spurs?

The first priority for De Zerbi must be to re-establish Tottenham as a top-half club, as another relegation scrap would be unthinkable.

Captain Cristian Romero was criticised by fans and pundits for his role in 2025-26, with many accusing the centre-back of failing his duties as a leader, and few would be surprised if he left the club this summer.

Having won numerous honours with Liverpool, Robertson is unlikely to tolerate low standards in the Spurs squad, and perhaps he will help raise the level of performance from underperforming stars such as Micky van de Ven.

The addition of leaders like the 32-year-old must be supplemented by quality in other areas of the pitch, but Tottenham at least look like they are heading in the right direction given they are already closing in on their first signing just days after the end of the season.

Tottenham Hotspur are expected to be one of the Premier League's busiest clubs this summer as preparations continue for a significant squad rebuild under manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Changes in multiple positions are anticipated, and Spurs have already been linked with several names across Europe as the club look to inject greater depth and long‑term quality into the squad.

Now, another intriguing name has reportedly emerged on their radar, with the north Londoners joining a growing queue of clubs chasing Karl Etta Eyong.

Spurs join race to sign Levante striker Karl Etta Eyong

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According to reports in Spain, Tottenham have reportedly entered the race for Etta Eyong, with the Levante striker attracting increasing attention ahead of the summer transfer window.

It's thought that Spurs are now alongside Everton among the Premier League sides tracking the 22-year-old, while Barcelona and Stuttgart have also shown interest.

Eyong enjoyed a bright opening to the season, scoring six goals in his first ten matches before finishing the campaign with seven goals and four assists in 34 appearances.

Despite a quieter second half of the campaign, interest has remained strong, and Levante are reportedly open to a sale for around €25 million (£20 million), excluding bonuses.

The Cameroon striker is also understood to be open to moving this summer, although reports suggest his 'dream' destination remains Barcelona should they revive their interest.

Etta Eyong has been compared to Erling Haaland

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Comparisons with Erling Haaland inevitably create huge expectations, and those labels can sometimes become more of a burden than a benefit for young players.

Still, there are some understandable similarities.

Eyong's profile is built around physicality, direct running, unpredictability, and a willingness to attack space aggressively, all traits that have led to data‑driven comparisons with Haaland’s style in the past.

Those who have worked with him also speak highly of his mentality, including former Cameroon boss Marc Brys, who offered a glowing assessment: "[Eyong is] dangerous, unpredictable, and capable of surprising anyone."

For Tottenham, this would be a signing geared more toward long‑term development than an instant fix. But with questions over attacking depth and a clear need to inject fresh energy into the squad, investing around £20 million in a high‑upside young striker could prove a calculated gamble worth taking.

No one should expect another Haaland overnight, as very few players ever justify that comparison, but Spurs may be positioning themselves to secure a forward whose best years are still well ahead of him.

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi is allegedly planning a triple raid on former club Brighton & Hove Albion.

De Zerbi completed an against-the-odds survival job with Spurs on Sunday as they earned the 1-0 victory over Everton that ensured that they finished in 17th place in the Premier League table.

Rather than being relegated to the Championship, the North Londoners can now look forward with optimism under a boss who accumulated 11 points from seven top-flight fixtures.

There will now be curiosity as to who De Zerbi and Spurs look to sign, with reports having already indicated that Liverpool defender Andrew Robertson could arrive on a free transfer.

Nevertheless, as per The Independent, the Italian is targeting three players who have just helped Brighton secure Conference League football for 2026-27.

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Which Brighton players could move to Spurs?

The report alleges that Bart Verbruggen, Jan Paul van Hecke and Carlos Baleba are the three players who are currently under consideration.

Goalkeeper Verbruggen has already been linked with the likes of Liverpool and other top European teams, and could plausibly move to a higher-profile club during the summer transfer window.

Centre-back Van Hecke is one of Brighton's key players, but the Netherlands international has just over 12 months remaining on his contract.

Although Carlos Baleba's stock arguably dropped last season, it was only last year when the midfielder was being linked with an £80m+ transfer to Manchester United.

That said, despite 23 starts in the Premier League during 2026-27, his eight substitute outings emphasise that he is not a certain starter under Fabian Hurzeler.

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Which Brighton player do Spurs need the most?

The performances of Antonin Kinsky during the run-in suggest that Spurs do not necessarily have to go all-out to acquire a new goalkeeper.

Meanwhile, central-midfield is one of the areas where they are well-stocked, and there are already several players at the club who are of similar profiles to Baleba.

However, acquiring Van Hecke would make a lot of sense, the 25-year-old having developed into a 10-cap Netherlands international through his time at Brighton.

Not only would Van Hecke bring a freshness to Spurs' backline, the fact that he has already racked up 106 appearances in the Premier League would bring some much-needed know-how to the backline when younger players such as Ashley Phillips and Luka Vuskovic could be contesting for the same position.

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has receives a huge boost in his quest to sign Joao Palhinha on a permanent deal this summer.

The 30-year-old midfielder scored the only goal of the game as Spurs secured a crucial 1-0 home win over Everton last weekend to avoid Premier League relegation, preserving their top-flight status for a 49th successive season.

The North Londoners have the option to make Palhinha’s loan move from Bayern Munich permanent for around €30m (£25.9m) and head coach De Zerbi is keen for the deal to be completed.

Asked after the win over Everton if he would like to keep Palhinha this summer, De Zerbi told reporters: “Yes I would like to keep him, 100%.

“We have to start from these people. Before we speak about the players, we have to speak about the people.

“And we have to start. Then, I can't give the place for everyone in the first eleven. Because I want to build two players in each position.

“But for sure, I would like him to stay with me. Like Conor Gallagher and [Rodrigo] Bentancur, the same.”

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“I feel at home”: Palhinha wants to stay at "top club" Spurs

Recent reports have emerged claiming that Palhinha’s transfer preference is to join former club Sporting Lisbon this summer, with talks between the midfielder and the Portuguese giants said to be ‘going well’.

While Sporting have qualified for next season’s Champions League after finishing second in the Primeira Liga, reports claimed that Palhinha was reluctant to make a decision over his Spurs future before their Premier League status was secured.

Palhinha has now quashed those rumours of returning to his native Portugal after confirming that he wants to stay in North London, claiming that his connection with the club is “like a marriage”.

“Since the first day I arrived I feel at home,” Palhinha told reporters. “From the supporters, the crowd. Top club. Who doesn’t want to play for Tottenham and stay here? I have everything here.

“This is like a marriage. What I can say to you is I would really like to be here and I enjoy it a lot this season with this club – even with it being a tough season.”

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Palhinha predicts “a big improvement” at Spurs next season

Palhinha is confident that Tottenham can learn from a turbulent campaign to forget, finishing 17th in the Premier League for the second successive season.

“I think the next season will hopefully be really different and I truly believe,” the midfielder said. “This season will help Tottenham for the future. Analyse the season, what we did wrong, what we did well and it will be a big improvement and a big relief after the season.”

Palhinha has played 45 times for Spurs across all competitions this season, chipping in with seven goals and three assists, but his performances were not enough to earn a place in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

While keeping Palhinha long term is one of many priorities for De Zerbi, defensive reinforcements are also thought to be high on the Italian’s agenda ahead of the new season.