Palhinha joined Tottenham on loan from Bayern Munich last summer. The 30-year-old scored a scrappy but decisive first-half goal in Sunday's 1-0 victory over Everton that preserved Tottenham's Premier League status on the final day of the season, a moment that briefly made him the most important person in north London.
De Zerbi was unambiguous about his wishes when asked after the final whistle.
"Yes, I would like to keep him, 100 per cent. We have to start from these people. Before we talk about players we have to talk about the people. I can't give a place to everyone in the starting eleven — I want to build two players for every position — but I absolutely want him to stay with me. Like Conor Gallagher and (Rodrigo) Bentancur, the same."
Tottenham hold a €30 million purchase option on Palhinha. The problem is that the player himself appears reluctant to exercise it. A Bola reported this week that talks between Palhinha and Sporting are progressing rapidly, with strong prospects of a return to his boyhood club on a three-year deal.
Sporting are planning their midfield around his arrival, and the pull of family and personal reasons is understood to be a significant factor in his thinking.
Bayern Munich, who paid Fulham €51 million for Palhinha in the summer of 2024 before loaning him to Spurs, are not inclined to extend the loan for a second season. They want to recoup capital now rather than delay further. The sticking point between Bayern and Sporting is the structure of any deal — loan with an option or permanent transfer.
Spurs are already identifying alternatives in central midfield in case the pursuit fails.
Palhinha made 43 appearances this season with six goals and three assists. Whatever he decides, Sunday's winning goal will be remembered.