Bayern Munich are expected to explore a move for a midfielder in the summer. They are parting ways with Leon Goretzka at the end of the season, which opens a space for a new midfield acquisition. However, Bayern need to sort the future of another experienced midfielder before looking for a new signing.
Joao Palhinha is still a Bayern player since he left the club last summer to join Tottenham Hotspur on a loan deal. The Portuguese midfielder started the season well, but the current circumstances at the North London club may hamper the chances of a permanent transfer.
According to Bild, Spurs are no longer expected to exercise the option to sign Palhinha for a fee closer to €30 million at the end of the season. With the club in a relegation battle and no clarity on the next coach, it is looking unlikely that Spurs will sign the Portuguese midfielder on a permanent deal.
Palhinha has made 37 appearances across all competitions this season. He has been a mainstay in the team, irrespective of who has been the head coach of the first team. The 30-year-old has delivered mixed performances, but this campaign can certainly help in attracting interest from other clubs.
Palhinha unlikely to have a future at Bayern
Despite playing regularly at Spurs and somewhat regaining his confidence, Palhinha will not have a chance to stay at Bayern beyond the summer. The Portuguese midfielder tried to fight for game time in his debut season. He was keen on staying in Munich last summer but eventually accepted that his game time would be significantly reduced under Vincent Kompany.
Palhinha will go down as one of the disappointing transfers Bayern have completed in the last decade. The Portuguese midfielder shouldn’t be blamed for the outcome of this transfer as he always tried his best, but Kompany’s system never suited a midfielder of his ilk.
Bayern will hope another Premier League club shows interest in Palhinha when the transfer window opens at the end of the season. The Premier League is the ideal place for the Portuguese midfielder to thrive. Fulham were reportedly interested in bringing him back to the club last summer. With the London-based side excelling under Marco Silva, a move back to Craven Cottage will be a good transfer for Palhinha.
With Palhinha currently not part of the Portuguese squad, Bayern can resolve his future early in the summer transfer window.
Stats courtesy- Whoscored