Tottenham securing Premier League survival was supposed to strengthen their position in the João Palhinha situation.
Instead, reports from Portugal now suggest the story remains very open.
A Bola explain Tottenham’s survival was initially viewed as bad news for Sporting because Spurs immediately secured massive financial advantages by staying in the Premier League. The newspaper estimates the club’s survival was worth between €135m and €140m (£116m-£120m).
That naturally gives Tottenham stronger conditions to try keeping Palhinha permanently from Bayern Munich.
However, despite that financial boost, Portuguese reports continue insisting Spurs still do not fully control the outcome. And also that they are still trying to get a discount.
Bayern already preparing for exit
One important detail has become clear in Portugal. According to A Bola, Bayern Munich have already informed Palhinha he is not part of their plans for the 2026/27 season.
The German club still hold the player’s contract until 2028 and Tottenham still possess the €30m (£25.8m) purchase option. However, Bayern’s desire to move the midfielder on is now being treated almost as established fact.
We have covered reports from Germany earlier this year with a similar view. Now Sporting are trying to take advantage of that situation.
The Lisbon side remain in contact with the player, his representatives and Bayern while exploring a loan with an option to buy – a structure viewed as more realistic financially.
Tottenham still cannot force outcome
De Zerbi continues pushing for Palhinha’s stay after the midfielder became one of Tottenham’s key players this season. Even so, Portuguese reports continue stressing the same legal reality around the clause.
The operation still requires full agreement between Bayern, Tottenham and the player himself. As reaffirmed by A Bola, if Palhinha says no to remaining in London, Spurs cannot do anything to force the move through.
That continues to fuel Sporting’s confidence.
The Portuguese side believe the “heart factor” may become decisive, especially because family reasons remain central to the midfielder’s thinking.
And now that Spurs’ survival is guaranteed, the situation appears to be entering a more openly negotiable phase.
Salary now biggest obstacle
According to the report, salary remains the biggest obstacle in the operation, even though Palhinha is willing to lower his wages to help facilitate a return.
That reinforces the slightly contradictory tone currently emerging in Portugal.
On one side, Sporting are increasingly acting like the move is possible and actively building towards it behind the scenes.
On the other, Portuguese outlets are also acknowledging the process remains highly complex despite the player’s wishes.
For now, Tottenham have more money, Premier League status and De Zerbi’s backing on their side. Sporting believe they have something else.
