Palhinha future in focus as Bayern and Tottenham weigh up loan decision

The Portuguese midfielder is currently on loan at Spurs, with the deal set to run until the end of the season. Tottenham are believed to be interested in making the move permanent, but their uncertain league position has complicated any immediate talks.

"Tottenham's situation is difficult. Joao is a fighter. He had a great start at Tottenham. Their focus is on staying up," Freund said during a press conference on Friday.

He added: "Tottenham know what they have in him. But the situation is very tense there, so it's tough to talk about the future."

Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany echoed those thoughts, stressing that Palhinha's attention is fully on helping Spurs secure their top-flight status.

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

Palhinha has been a regular figure for Spurs this season, making 40 appearances across all competitions. He has contributed five goals and three assists, while also bringing his trademark physical presence in midfield.

Any decision on his future is expected to be left until the summer, once Tottenham's Premier League fate is clear and both clubs can reassess the situation with more certainty.

READ MORE: Liverpool handed Alisson hope but Mamardashvili out for Palace encounter