Joao Palhinha willing to accept pay cut for Sporting CP return
Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha is prepared to reduce his salary to secure a move back to Sporting CP, despite interest from Tottenham.
Joao Palhinha has emerged as the primary target for Sporting CP as they look to renovate their midfield for the 2026-2027 season. The 30-year-old, currently on loan at Tottenham from Bayern Munich, is viewed as the ideal successor for captain Morten Hjulmand, who is expected to depart this summer.
Although the midfielder has publicly stated a desire to remain at Spurs, reports indicate he is prioritizing a return to his former club. To make the deal feasible, Palhinha is reportedly willing to accept a significant pay cut, as his current salary in Germany is considered financially impossible for Portuguese clubs to match.
"One hundred per cent; we have to start with those types of people," — Roberto De Zerbi.
Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi has made his intentions clear, urging the club to trigger the £26 million buy option. Despite a difficult campaign where Spurs narrowly avoided relegation, Palhinha was a standout performer, contributing seven goals and two assists in 45 appearances.
Sporting are currently exploring ways to convince Bayern to facilitate the move, whether through a negotiated fee or a loan with an option to buy. With the player's personal terms effectively aligned with his desire to return, the focus now shifts entirely to club-to-club negotiations, leaving his future in London uncertain.