Bayern Munich are expected to sign Joao Palinha from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer. But their plans could be spoiled with Leon Goretzka becoming available on a free transfer.
This is according to Sport BuildWhich cover today's situation. The German newspaper reports that the recent dismissal of Thomas Frank has thrown Palahinha's future into question.
The Portuguese midfielder joined Tottenham on loan from Bayern in the summer transfer window. That deal includes the option for him to make it permanent in the summer. It will cost them €30m to do so.
The question is whether they will do so. It is up to their next permanent manager to decide and it remains to be seen who that will be. Igor Tudor is currently the man in the dugout but only on an interim basis.
Frank's exit creates uncertainty at Tottenham
He replaced Thomas Frank, who was a big supporter of Palhinha and wanted him in the summer. And according to Sport Bild, his exit means a permanent deal is now in jeopardy.
There is also the issue of Goretzka. He is leaving Bayern on a free transfer in the summer and would love to move to the Premier League. Tottenham is one of the English teams interested in him.
The idea is clear and distinct. Tottenham will avoid paying €30m for Pelhinha in preference to acquiring Goretzka on a free transfer. Spurs somehow get the midfielder they want but saving money while doing so would be a huge boost.
Goretzka's interest is not new
Tottenham's interest in Goretzka is also nothing new. Sport Witness has covered several reports about it over the past year.
These have gained momentum following his announcement that he will leave Bayern Munich on a free transfer this summer. Even, reportedly, A surprise bid at the end of the January transfer window.
The expectation is that he will be a strong target for Tottenham when the summer window opens. But now, it seems, it could also mean that Palhinha has been dropped in favor of him.
