Newcastle should accelerate Joao Palhinha move after he sends 'profound' message - verdict

Joao Palhinha has confirmed that his time at Tottenham Hotspur has come to an end after a season spent on loan.

The North London club decided against activating the £26million option to buy in the midfielder's loan deal from Bayern Munich, despite him having been among their best-performing players.

The 30-year-old scored several crucial goals throughout the season, ultimately netting the winning goal on the final day against Everton which kept Tottenham in the Premier League.

Palhinha remains under contract at Bayern until 2028, and will likely be allowed to leave the club this summer on a cheap deal.

That could be just the type of opportunity Newcastle United are looking for, as they deal with an exodus in the middle of the park.

Sandro Tonali has agreed a £100m move to Tottenham, while Bruno Guimaraes is of interest to Premier League champions Arsenal.

Newcastle hold dated interest in Joao Palhinha

While Newcastle have never firmed up their interest in Palhinha with a bid, decision-makers have certainly eyed him for some time.

Before the midfielder joined Fulham in 2022, the Magpies were reportedly among several Premier League clubs watching his progress.

They continued to do so when he began to impress with the Cottagers, and this summer could finally present the perfect opportunity to sign him.

Palhinha proved last season that he remains a superb option - a defensive powerhouse, always capable of popping up with crucial goals when needed.

If Newcastle are to lose both Tonali and Guimaraes this summer, they will need experience and leadership alongside the talent of a player like Johan Manzambi, who is in talks to join.

Palhinha brings both of those traits in abundance, and would be available for a fee likely close to £15m.

Palhinha shares Tottenham message

Palhinha took to Instagram on Friday to share a message to the Tottenham fans following confirmation of his departure.

The 30-year-old spoke of his deep love for his time in North London, and thanked the fans for their support.

"London gave me more than a professional career, it gave me two homes that I will always carry in my heart", he wrote.

Newcastle will now hope to give Palhinha a third home in London, but this time, it will be up north.