Tottenham drop subtle hint about Joao Palhinha's future amid return talk

Tottenham may have just revealed the future of Joao Palhinha after his loan spell came to an end.

The Portugal international joined the Lilywhites temporarily last season from Bayern Munich.

Despite some shaky moments, he went on to have some shining moments as he became a cult hero somewhat.

It wasn't the dream campaign for anyone involved, but avoiding relegation has allowed the N17 outfit to look to the future with anticipation.

There was an expectation that the 30-year-old would stay after his loan move after Spurs remained in the Premier League.

The North Londoners appear to have now all-but confirmed Palhinha's future in a very subtle way.

Tottenham make Joao Palhinha changes on website

It has been reported that Roberto De Zerbi wanted to keep the midfielder after taking charge of him for just seven games.

The Portuguese ace must have made of a positive impression as his passion certainly was on show in N17.

That hasn't yet transpired to a permanent move as nothing has been announced regarding a return.

Tottenham now seem to have pointed towards the idea that Palhinha won't be coming back after removing him from their club site.

Until now the ex-Fulham man's name was available for printing on newly released shirts, which gave many fans hope of an imminent transfer.

With Randal Kolo Muani also being removed, it could just be procedure after their loan deals ended as July begun, but if Palhinha was staying, would he be chalked off like this?

What's next for Tottenham and Palhinha?

There are always going to be questions about a loanee when their deal expires without an end result.

Given how important Palhinha had been in the final weeks of the campaign a deal felt likely.

That hasn't happened for whatever reason at this point and Spurs have removed any link to him on their website, for now.

The defensive midfielder has been linked with other moves and could ultimately end up back at Sporting CP after four years away.

There is a long way to go in this transfer window, but his situation could likely be sorted at some point soon.