Bayern boss addresses possibility of João Palhinha's Tottenham loan becoming permanent

With João Palhinha’s loan spell at Tottenham set to expire at the end of the season, it's unclear how the Bayern Munich midfielder’s future will develop beyond the summer.

Tottenham are said to be interested in making the Portuguese international’s loan move permanent. However, with the London club in danger of relegation, FC Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund says it is “tough” to discuss the possibility of the 30-year-old staying at this stage.

“Tottenham’s situation is difficult. João is a fighter. He had a great start at Tottenham. Their focus is on staying up,” Freund said at a press conference on Friday.

“Tottenham know what they have in him. But the situation is very tense there, so it’s tough to talk about the future.”

Sitting alongside Freund, Bayern coach Vincent Kompany spoke in the same vein.

“We know his qualities, what sort of player he is. But he only has one goal right now, which is staying up with Tottenham. That would be a good end to the season for him. But we obviously know João well,” he said.

Palhinha has made 40 appearances for Tottenham this season, scoring five goals and providing three assists.