Palhinha confirms Tottenham exit as Spurs seal £100m Tonali deal and Fernandes signing

Joao Palhinha has confirmed he will not return to Tottenham after his season-long loan from Bayern Munich came to an end, with the club already moving forward under Roberto De Zerbi by securing Sandro Tonali from Newcastle in a deal worth up to £100m and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham.

The 30-year-old Portugal international made 45 appearances for Spurs last season and scored the goal that kept them in the Premier League on the final day against Everton. Despite that contribution, Palhinha will not be part of De Zerbi’s plans as the new head coach reshapes the squad following their survival battle.

“Representing Tottenham has had a profound impact on my life, not only professionally but also personally, and it is something I will carry with me forever,” Palhinha wrote on Instagram. “As I have said before, what truly defines a great institution and a great football club is its supporters. Players, managers and directors come and go, but the fans remain. You are the ones who keep the flame of this club burning, season after season.”

He signed off with a direct message to supporters: “With the utmost respect and gratitude, I say goodbye to all of you. Thank you so much COYS.”

Palhinha, who joined Spurs from Bayern Munich on loan after previously spending time at Fulham, is not expected to return to the Bundesliga club under Vincent Kompany either. The midfielder will now assess his options ahead of next season.

Tottenham’s decision to invest heavily in midfield with Tonali and Fernandes signals a clear intent to rebuild under De Zerbi, who inherited a squad that only narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League last term.