Spurs’ new manager, Thomas Frank has expressed surprise and excitement over the opportunity to sign Joao Palinha from Bayern Munich. After just one season in Germany, João Palhinha (30) has returned to England, after Bayern Munich agreed to loan the Portuguese midfielder to Tottenham Hotspur for the 2025/26 season.
Loan Deal Worth €7M, Spurs Hold €30M Buy Option
According to SPORT-BILD, Tottenham will pay up to €7 million for the loan and cover Palhinha’s full salary, which includes €8.5 million base plus potential bonuses up to €10 million. The loan includes an option to buy for €30 million.
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 3, 2025
Tottenham Boss Thomas Frank: “We’re Lucky to Have Him”
Spurs’ new manager Thomas Frank expressed excitement over the opportunity. “Yes, I was a bit surprised… Bayern had been chasing him for two years. For whatever reason, coach, culture, or club things didn’t work out, but we’re fortunate to get him,” he told Football London.
From Fulham to Bayern to Spurs: A Rollercoaster Year
Palhinha joined Bayern from Fulham in 2024 for €51 million after a drawn-out negotiation.
Warrior 💪 pic.twitter.com/2MO0NyG92x
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 3, 2025
Despite high expectations, he struggled to establish himself under Bayern’s setup and ultimately became expendable. Joao Palhinha only made 25 appearances for Bayern, and was in the starting eleven just 10 times.
Palhinha’s Profile Fills a Tactical Gap at Spurs
Frank emphasized Palhinha’s unique skillset, saying: “We don’t have his profile—a true No. 6. He doesn’t get carried away and brings needed experience.” He praised Palhinha’s versatility, noting that the midfielder can play multiple roles and brings a calm, disciplined presence. Frank, who previously managed Brentford (2018–2025), said: “He was very annoying to play against—which is a good quality! I remember our battles with him clearly.
