Report: Tottenham closely monitoring 6ft 3in colossus who's like 'prime Matic', £25m price tag

By Giuseppe Labellarte

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with Sporting Lisbon star Joao Palhinha for quite a while now.

And ahead of the summer transfer window, it looks as though Spurs are still eyeing the 26-year-old midfielder.

Today, a report in O Jogo – via Sport Witness – has claimed that Tottenham are still ‘attentive’ towards Palhinha.

As well as Spurs, fellow Premier League club Wolves are apparently eyeing the Portugal international too.

However, Tottenham are reportedly just one of ‘many clubs’ following him, with Paris Saint-Germain also mentioned.

Manchester United have also been linked with Palhinha, as per Record.

Regarding Spurs, O Jogo claim Antonio Conte’s side ‘study the signing of a midfielder’ for the summer window.

Sporting reportedly want 30m euro (around £25m) for Palhinha’s services.

However, O Jogo reckons it will not be easy for the Lions to get that amount.

This is especially if he fails to impress and win back his place with the national team in the final months of the season.

Following injuries and suspensions, the player hopes to recover his good form and put himself in the shop window.

Both he and the club expect a move this summer, added O Jogo.

“A special player”

Although Palhinha may have struggled at times this term, he’s a top talent who looks set for a big career move.

He has made 92 appearances for Sporting and has also won 12 caps for Portugal.

Fans have previously compared Palhinha, who stands a mighty 6ft 3in, to Nemanja Matic and Fabinho.

“The credit goes to Palhinha, who grew up this way,” Sporting boss Ruben Amorim said in 2021.

“I tell Palhinha many times that he is very good without the ball and with the ball.

“More than tactical (details), I get it into Palhinha’s head that he is a special player.”

Tottenham could certainly do with further reinforcements in midfield this summer.

And Palhinha wouldn’t be a bad shout for Conte and co – but Spurs are sure to have competition for his services.