Tottenham set ‘clear internal plan’ on £26m Joao Palhinha transfer after FA Cup showing

With the winter window in full swing, reports have now revealed Tottenham Hotspur’s plans for Joao Palhinha in 2026.

Results have been far from ideal for Tottenham Hotspur this season, with inconsistency preventing Thomas Frank’s men from taking strides in the league.

Fans have been left frustrated by performances, and as a result, boos have been heard following poor displays.

Last time out against Bournemouth, Spurs did put in a performance that Frank believed was good enough, but they still fell short as they lost the game.

Tottenham’s plan for Joao Palhinha’s future revealed

Joao Palhinha was one of the standout performers with his sensational overhead kick that drew Spurs level, but it was not enough as Tottenham left with no points.

Palhinha also put in a monstrous midfield masterclass against Aston Villa, with crunching tackles and driving runs galore, even if he did find himself on the wrong side of the scoreline.

The 30-year-old remains on loan, and now Florian Plettenberg has revealed what he knows about the midfielder’s future in north London.

According to the journalist, Tottenham are understood to have a clear internal plan to only decide on Palhinha’s future after the end of the season.

Spurs currently hold an option to buy the Portuguese midfielder in the summer for €25m (£21.5m) guaranteed, a fee that could rise to €30m (£26m) including add-ons.

????⚪️ Tottenham Hotspur have a clear internal plan at the moment to only decide on João #Palhinha’s future after the end of the season.#THFC have an option to buy in summer, set at €25m guaranteed. With potential add-ons through bonuses, the option can rise to up to €30m.… pic.twitter.com/RUOHv13PYV

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 8, 2026

Why Spurs must weigh up midfield decision

Palhinha’s Tottenham career was off to a flying start, with the midfielder more or less having a guaranteed spot in the starting XI during his opening weeks.

However, in recent times, his involvement from the start has reduced, with Frank often trusting Archie Gray and Rodrigo Bentancur ahead of the 30-year-old.

The midfielder is moving on in age, and with around €30m (£26m) required to secure him permanently, it may not represent the best option, particularly with the possibility of several holding midfielders being available in the summer.

• READ MORE: Tottenham Hotspur confirm fifth loan exit of the January transfer window

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