Tottenham 'on brink of transfer' with talks advanced for ex-Man Utd target

Tottenham are reportedly on the brink of signing Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha, who has previously been linked with Manchester United. The north Londoners have enjoyed a busy summer window, bringing in no less than five new players. They spent big to land Mohammed Kudus from West Ham after completing permanent moves for ex-loanees Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel.

Their new manager Thomas Frank has also invested in youth, signing teenage defender Luka Vuskovic and Japanese youngster Kota Takai. Another exciting deal now appears to be on the horizon with Palhinha reportedly close to sealing a move. The former Fulham midfielder joined Bayern Munich last summer but was struck down by injuries and struggled to work his way back into the side.

Negotiations regarding a loan move to Tottenham are 'very advanced' with a deal 'almost complete', according to Sky Germany. It is claimed that only a few minor details need to be ironed out before the move can be considered done and dusted.

Meanwhile, it has been claimed by Fabrizio Romano that Tottenham will have the option to buy Palhinha at the end of his loan spell. They have also reportedly agreed to cover the midfielder's salary for the duration of the upcoming season.

Palhinha was linked with United before joining Bayern Munich a little over a year ago. The Red Devils were said to have registered their interest with Fulham, only to be informed that Palhinha had no desire to play for them.

He was only interested in moving to Germany, according to Sky Sports, and got his wish before the start of last season. He only made 17 league appearances for the Bundesliga giants, though, and barely played towards the end of the campaign.

Tottenham will be hoping for Palhinha to rediscover the form he showed at Fulham and propel them up the Premier League table next season.

Tim Sherwood, the former Tottenham boss, will be looking forward to Palhinha's arrival having spoken highly of the Portugal international in the past.

Speaking on talkSPORT in early 2024, when the player was still at Fulham, Sherwood said: "I like him. This guy will kick his family members [to get a result]. He gets loads of cards, he's got disciplinary problems. He's got energy, he runs around.

"He's like two bodies in the middle of the pitch, he anticipates where the ball is going to go, he's got a decent range of passing, pops up with a goal, heads balls out of the box. He does the scruffy stuff that you need to do. I think Palhinha is a top-drawer player."

Given that he is arriving on loan from Bayern Munich, Palhinha will almost certainly be unable to play against them when Tottenham face the German giants in a friendly next week. He could potentially make his debut against PSG in the Super Cup six days later.

For the latest breaking stories and headlines, sign up to our Daily Express transfer newsletter.