Sporting CP are preparing a major overhaul of their midfield ahead of the new season and are targeting more than just João Palhinha to strengthen the defensive midfield position.
After officially signing Rodrigo Zalazar for the attacking sector, Sporting’s board has now shifted its focus to reinforcing the center of the pitch. While Palhinha remains the club’s dream signing for the number six role, the Portuguese giants are also pursuing another defensive midfielder, with Sergi Altimira from Real Betis and Silas Andersen from Häcken both under consideration.
The expected departures of Hidemasa Morita and Morten Hjulmand, combined with uncertainty surrounding Daniel Bragança and Kochorashvili, have forced Sporting into reshaping their midfield options. Alongside negotiations for Venezia midfielder Issa Doumbia, the Lions are pushing to bring Palhinha back to Alvalade.
Palhinha left Sporting for Fulham in 2022 before later joining Bayern Munich in a €51 million transfer. Sporting also benefited financially from the move thanks to a future sell-on clause and FIFA solidarity payments.
Currently on loan at Tottenham, the Portuguese international reportedly wants to return closer to his family and has already rejected approaches from Turkish clubs. Sporting are believed to be working on a loan deal with an option to buy, while the player is willing to reduce his salary to make the move happen.
Meanwhile, Sporting continue to monitor alternative options. Betis midfielder Sergi Altimira, 24, remains highly rated despite the Spanish club initially demanding close to €30 million. Danish youngster Silas Andersen, 21, has also impressed with Häcken and is seen as a promising addition for the future.
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