FC Bayern are still planning to sell several players in order to free up funds for their own transfers. João Palhinha is one of the hottest candidates to leave. While Tottenham Hotspur would like to keep the Portuguese, a transfer poker is now looming over the transfer fee
João Palhinha’s sporting future no longer seems to lie in Munich. The midfielder was loaned out to Tottenham Hotspur last season and was able to stabilize in the Premier League. Now Spurs are working on a permanent deal for the 31-year-old
In principle, the Londoners have a purchase option, which is said to amount to around 30 million euros including possible bonus payments. However, it is precisely this amount that now appears to be too high for Tottenham
According to Sky, Spurs would like to renegotiate the agreed terms and lower the price for the Portuguese international
This could become a problem for FC Bayern, who are firmly planning on transfer income and need additional revenue to be able to realize further desired transfers
Tottenham remain the favorites for a signing
Despite the renegotiations, the chances of Palhinha remaining in London are still considered good. The midfielder is said to be happy at Spurs and has recently indicated himself that he can imagine continuing his commitment in England
Tottenham coach Roberto De Zerbi is also said to be positive about a permanent signing, with the Italian appreciating the qualities of the defensive midfielder and seeing him as a valuable option for his system
In addition to Tottenham, Sporting Lisbon are also interested in the return of the former crowd favourite. The Portuguese are keeping a close eye on the situation and could take action if negotiations stall
However, Sporting are unlikely to be in a financial position to compete with the Premier League, which is why Spurs are still the clear favorites
Bayern urgently need sales proceeds
From FC Bayern’s point of view, a quick decision would be desirable. Max Eberl is currently working hard to generate income and reduce salary costs at the same time
Palhinha is one of the players who could provide the necessary relief. In addition to an attractive transfer fee, the Munich club would also save on the Portuguese’s comparatively high salary
As Florian Plettenberg reports, the decision should not be long in coming. As Palhinha has not been nominated for the Portuguese national team at the World Cup, he can currently concentrate fully on planning his future
The people in charge at Säbener Straße are likely to be concerned with one question in particular: how big will the difference between Spurs‘ expectations and FC Bayern’s demands ultimately be?
In any case, it is clear that Munich do not want to let the midfielder go at any price. Even if Palhinha no longer plays a role in their long-term plans, he still has a solid market value and is considered a sought-after type of player, particularly in the Premier League
Should Tottenham and Bayern reach an agreement, Palhinha would be one of the next candidates to drive forward the major squad shake-up at the German record champions.