Palhinha exits Tottenham, returns to Bayern, Sporting linked

Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha will not be joining Tottenham Hotspur on a permanent basis and is set to return to Bayern Munich, the player confirmed on Friday. His departure follows Tottenham's significant investment in other midfield options this summer.

Palhinha spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Tottenham from Bayern Munich, making 45 appearances across all competitions. He played a key role in the club's successful fight to avoid Premier League relegation, most notably scoring the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Everton on the final day of the season. Overall, he scored seven goals during his loan spell.

In a social media post addressed to Tottenham supporters, Palhinha expressed his gratitude. He stated that representing the club had a profound personal and professional impact and thanked fans for their support. Tottenham held an option to make the move permanent for a reported fee of 25.9 million to 30 million, and the player had previously expressed a desire to stay.

However, the club's transfer strategy shifted under manager Roberto De Zerbi. Tottenham has pursued a major midfield rebuild, securing the signings of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and Sandro Tonali...