Tottenham must trigger eight-figure deal for player Thomas Frank loves
Tottenham may need to accelerate a permanent move for one of their key players this season as stats reveal his importance to the side.
Tottenham saw major changes over the summer, with plenty of new faces arriving but also a new coach at the helm, with Thomas Frank being appointed Spurs manager as Ange Postecoglou was sacked.
He was involved in the transfer window, which saw the likes of Mohamed Kudus joining from West Ham and Spurs beating Chelsea to the signing of Xavi Simons.
Frank has got his new side competing on all fronts, with the team sitting third in the Premier League, advancing to the last 16 of the Carabao Cup and a victory in the Champions League.
Key to that success is one player who was brought in over the summer, who has signed on loan. But Spurs may have no choice but to push for a permanent deal sooner rather than later.
Joao Palhinha is second for tackles made in the Premier League
Joao Palhinha signed for Tottenham in the summer on an initial loan deal, which includes an option to buy for £27 million [Sky Sports]
After an underwhelming campaign at Bayern Munich, the Portuguese midfielder has reminded everyone of his qualities in English football.
According to Squawka, Palhinha ranks second amongst Premier League players with the most tackles made with 19, behind Moises Caicedo by just two.
His performances have also caught the eye of pundits as Palhinha was described as “perfect” by Alan Shearer in the side’s victory over Man City earlier in the season.
His style of play is suited to Frank, as a lone defensive midfielder, with the ability to break up play as well as dictate possession forward from that position.
| Season statistics | Joao Palhinha |
| Appearances | 5 |
| Tackles made | 19 |
| Duels won % | 62% |
| Aerial duels won | 7 |
£27m is a bargain for Palhinha
While his stint in the Bundesliga proved disappointing, Tottenham supporters were optimistic about Palhinha’s arrival, and their faith has been more than rewarded.
Considering he signed for Bayern for around £47m, a fee of £27m to sign him permanently could prove to be one of the smartest pieces of business by the club in recent times.
With Yves Bissouma axed from Frank’s first-team plans after a bust-up, Palhinha’s role in the squad has gained even more importance. Given his consistency and quality since his move, there is no doubt that there should be talks over making the permanent switch.