Joao Palhinha joins Tottenham from Bayern on season-long loan

Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha is set to join Tottenham Hotspur on a one-year loan from Bayern Munich, both clubs said on Sunday. "With Tottenham Hotspur, we have found the best solution for all sides," said Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl.

Munich's Joao Palhinha pictured prior to the start of the FIFA Club World Cup Group C soccer match between Benfica Lisbon and Bayern Munich at the Bank of America Stadium. Sven Hoppe/dpa
Munich's Joao Palhinha pictured prior to the start of the FIFA Club World Cup Group C soccer match between Benfica Lisbon and Bayern Munich at the Bank of America Stadium. Sven Hoppe/dpa

Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha is set to join Tottenham Hotspur on a one-year loan from Bayern Munich, both clubs said on Sunday.

"With Tottenham Hotspur, we have found the best solution for all sides," said Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl. "Joao can play a full season there at the top international level.

The deal includes an option for the Premier League side to buy Palhinha.

The Portuguese was Bayern's preferred target in 2023 when Thomas Tuchel was their coach. A deal did not materialize but he then arrived last year from Fulham for a reported €51 million ($59 million) on a contract until 2028.

However, Tuchel was no longer in charge, and Palhinha only saw very limited playing time under new coach Vincent Kompany. Palhinha was not part of the squad for Saturday's 2-1 pre-season win over Lyon.

"Unfortunately, Joao Palhinha did not get the playing time he had hoped for at FC Bayern last season," said Eberl.

Tottenham, the Europa League winners, are due to visit Bayern for a friendly on Thursday.

Category: General Sports