Bayern midfielder Palhinha joins Spurs on loan

Munich, Bayern midfielder Joao Palhinha has been signed on a season-long loan deal by Tottenham.

The 30-year-old, who left Fulham for the German side in 2024, made just 17 Bundesliga appearances last year.

With questions over Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur’s futures, Spurs boss Thomas Frank was interested in signing a defensive-minded midfielder following his appointment.

At the end of his loan, Tottenham also have the option of making Palhinha a permanent resident.

Before making his £42.3 million move to Bayern, the Portugal international had a wealth of Premier League experience, making 68 top-flight appearances during Fulham’s two-year tenure.

In his previous spell in the English top flight, Palhinha finished with a total of 300 tackles, which is 109 more than any other player, and placed sixth in terms of interceptions (92).

However, his combative play is vulnerable because he has received 27 yellow cards in 2022-22 and 2023-24, or at least five more than anyone else.

Edu Rubio, a former coach of Crystal Palace, West Ham, and Wolves,

Tottenham could use Joao Palhinha very much.

The move could help the team’s defensive approach and backline be balanced, while also providing balance to a very creative and attack-minded midfield.

He has excellent defensive-minded midfield skills, and his physical prowess and presence will be a real asset for the Premier League.

Palhinha’s ability to win aerial duels and tackles can be very valuable.