Tottenham in Joao Palhinha 'blow' as reason behind Hayden Hackney interest becomes clear
Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Hayden Hackney could be the reason that they may not sign Joao Palhinha.
The Portuguese star had a brilliant campaign for Spurs, helping to keep them in the Premier League.
It appeared that Roberto De Zerbi’s side had pulled out of the race to sign the 30-year-old, despite the manager wanting to keep him around.
However, a report from A Bola had suggested that the 37-cap international wanted to return to his homeland, and a deal with Sporting was close
Tottenham’s transfer strategy could well be the reason that this is the case, as they may feel like Hackney offers better value for money.
Why Hackney interest could scupper Palhinha signing
John Wenham has previously called out Tottenham for the potential of missing out on Palhinha’s signature.
The Spurs insider feels that the interest in Hackney could be the reason for the snub on the former Fulham man.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, he said: “We have seen reports that Tottenham are one of three clubs interested in Hayden Hackney. I just wonder if it is to do with that, and they want a different profile in the squad, to bring down the average age of the side.
“We have got a lot of good young players already, Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall and others.
“Palhinha seemed like a sensible signing, had an amazing season for Tottenham, scored seven goals, but had loads of really important tackles and defensive contributions too.
“I just wonder if personal circumstances are at play, maybe he wants to return to Portugal, and at his age he sees this as his last chance to get a big contract, that might be the case here.
“It would be a blow.”
Why could Tottenham choose Hackney over Palhinha?
The latest on Palhinha’s future may well be down to interest in Hackney, as Wenham suggests.
The 23-year-old represents better value, and he excelled in the Championship last season, so could make the step up.
It would be a risk for Spurs, as he does not have top-flight experience, which the Portugal star has in abundance.
However, they can’t place full faith in the veteran, as his age means that his performances could decline, so it makes sense to replace him with a younger man.