Tottenham Moves to Strengthen Midfield with Palhinha and Eze in Transfer Focus

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Tottenham Hotspur appear to be finalising a pair of high-profile signings that could redefine their midfield for the coming season.With João Palhinha possibly arriving from Bayern Munich and a late move for Eberechi Eze affecting Arsenal’s transfer efforts, Spurs are assembling a squad that suits new manager Thomas Frank’s tactical style ahead of a demanding domestic and European schedule. The north London side has already committed substantial investment this summer to support Frank, who arrived following Ange Postecoglou’s departure after delivering UEFA Europa League success. While the arrivals of Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel have added attacking depth, concerns remain about midfield stability and defensive resilience. Tottenham’s long season, bolstered by European fixtures, has made squad depth a priority.

Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha, 30, could provide the experience and physical presence Spurs need in the centre of the park. Talks are reportedly ongoing between Tottenham and German champions Bayern Munich, with the Premier League side pushing for a loan deal. Palhinha, who earned plaudits during his time at Fulham for his ball-winning ability, has struggled to cement a place under Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany. Should the move be completed, Palhinha would offer a proven defensive midfield option in a squad currently relying on emerging talents such as Archie Grey, Lucas Bergvall, and Pape Matar Sarr. Meanwhile, both Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur are entering the final year of their contracts, raising questions about their long-term roles.

In a parallel development, Tottenham are reportedly challenging Arsenal in the race to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze. Arsenal have been in discussions over a potential £67.5 million transfer for the England international, but Spurs’ late interest may unsettle those talks. Eze, who has flourished in both wide and central attacking roles at Palace, would bring additional flair and versatility to Frank’s midfield options. He is seen as a viable option to play behind the striker or on the flanks, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Son Heung-min’s future and recent failed efforts to lure Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest.

Should both deals materialise, Frank would have the opportunity to deploy a formidable midfield line-up. Sarr, who logged the most league minutes among Spurs’ deep-lying midfielders last season, could partner Palhinha in a double pivot. Ahead of them, a trio of Kudus, Kulusevski, and Eze would offer pace, creativity, and fluidity behind the main striker in Frank’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.

The possible acquisition of Palhinha and Eze reflects Tottenham’s proactive approach in the transfer market and the club’s intention to challenge for honours on multiple fronts. Crucially, it also indicates a willingness to invest in both short-term competitiveness and long-term squad structure. With just weeks remaining in the summer window, Spurs’ recruitment strategy could yet deny a direct rival and lay the foundation for a new era under Frank.