Tottenham, Newcastle United and Manchester United are reportedly keen to battle it out for Sporting CP’s €60 million-rated midfielder Joao Palhinha.
According to Portuguese outlet Record, Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha is the subject of interest from clubs all around Europe, with Premier League outfits particularly keen on the Sporting CP star. Manchester United, Newcastle United and Tottenham have all been credited with an interest, with a summer move likely.
Joao Palhinha has been a key part of the progressive Sporting CP side as he continues to put in mature performances for the Portuguese outfit.
Manchester United have already scouted the defensive midfielder in recent weeks, with Newcastle United and Tottenham also keeping a close eye on the player’s development. Sporting CP are reportedly willing to let the midfielder leave in the summer.
Palhinha’s termination clause stands at €60 million, although the Portuguese outfit may be willing to accept less. Palhinha plays as a midfield anchor for Sporting and his role is certainly one needed at the three Premier League clubs keen on signing him.
Tottenham, for instance, have Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg as the only viable defensive midfielder in their ranks, as new arrival Rodrigo Bentancur is not considered an anchor.
Manchester United fans have grown discontent after seeing Fred and Scott McTominay pair up to form a weak midfield partnership. They would certainly want the club to upgrade in that position during the summer transfer window, which could be prompting Manchester United’s interest in Palhinha.
They might have competition from Real Madrid, who could switch their attention to the Portuguese midfielder if they fail to sign their preferred midfield targets. Meanwhile, there’s also considerable interest from Newcastle United, who are reportedly willing to recruit Palhinha in the summer.
The Magpies did sign Bruno Guimaraes and are in talks to extend Jonjo Shelvey’s contract. Yet there is a glaring need for a bona fide defensive midfielder. The Sporting CP ace could become the perfect addition, considering the immediate improvement he might make to the current Newcastle midfield.
In the end, any move will depend upon these clubs and their willingness to pay Sporting’s €60 million asking price. For now, Palhinha continues to be a highly sought-after player whose stock grows with every performance.