In a recent print edition, The Sun (1 July, Page 67) revealed that Tottenham Hotspur are big admirers of Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha. It has been stated that Spurs are keeping tabs on the Portuguese talent ahead of a potential move this summer.
Palhinha’s Impressive Run Of Form In Premier League Football
Palhinha enjoyed a solid campaign at Craven Cottage recently after he put in several dominant displays for the Cottagers in the middle of the park. The Portuguese sensation made 40 appearances for the London club last season, finding the back of the net four times for them across all competitions.
The 27-year-old proved himself to be a valuable contributor at the heart of Fulham’s midfield based on his average of 4.2 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 1.7 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He was even excellent when distributing possession from midfield as he completed 83% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current deal at Fulham will run out in the summer of 2027. Hence, it won’t be easy for Spurs to lure him away from Craven Cottage in this off-season.
Will Palhinha Be A Decent Option For Tottenham Hotspur Boss Angelos Postecoglu?
Palhinha is a solid tackler of the ball and can make some important interceptions for his team at the centre of the park. He usually clears the danger when required and can strike the ball with power from long range.
The Portuguese midfield ace is a tidy passer of the ball as well but needs to add a few assists to his game. He is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also function as a central defender if told to do so.
Palhinha will no doubt enhance the quality of Tottenham‘s first XI and increase competition for places within Angelos Postecoglu’s match-day squad. He has already proven himself to be a reliable performer in the Premier League and won’t take any time to settle into life at the North London club. Furthermore, the Portugal international might help Tottenham compete for a top-four place next season.
At 27, Palhinha is about to enter his prime which makes him an excellent option for Spurs to pursue during this summer transfer window.