Tottenham Hotspur are stepping up efforts to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha, according to The Telegraph.
The North Londoners have identified the Portuguese international as a key transfer target this summer, and talks are ongoing behind the scenes.
However, Spurs may need to offload a few players, especially in midfield, before completing a deal for Palhinha.
The 30-year-old midfielder made his name at Fulham before moving to the Allianz Arena in a £42 million deal.
But he has struggled to settle in Germany, and fitness issues have hampered his chances of nailing down a permanent spot in the starting line-up.
Despite his struggles, he’s still rated highly in England for his aggressive tackling and ability to read the game. His physical presence made him a standout performer for Fulham.
Spurs see him as someone who can bring leadership and experience to their squad, but there are talks that they may only want to bring him in on an initial loan deal.
Tottenham are already well-stocked in the middle of the park and will need a sale to create space.
Yves Bissouma appears to be the most likely to leave. The Malian has entered the final year of his contract and plays in the same holding midfield role as Palhinha.
Son’s exit could be the key to unlocking record deal for Palhinha
Any deal for Palhiinha would be a major shift from Tottenham’s transfer strategy of targeting younger players.
They signed five teenagers last season, so working on a deal for a 30-year-old is a sign that Thomas Frank wants more experienced players in his squad.
If the deal goes through, it would be the first time in nearly a decade that Spurs have paid a fee for an outfielder aged 30 or older.
Meanwhile, club captain Son Heung-min is also attracting attention. Los Angeles FC have made enquiries about the South Korean star, who has one year left on his contract.
While there have been discussions, Spurs say no official offer has yet been made. Son’s exit could also pave the way for Spurs to push ahead with a deal for Palhinha.