Tottenham‘s midfield rebuild has continued to gather momentum after the club secured an £85 million agreement to sign Mateus Fernandes, and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali is front and centre.
Fernandes is expected to become one of the headline additions of the summer as Roberto De Zerbi reshapes the spine of his squad ahead of the new campaign.
Fernandes’ arrival is not expected to end Tottenham’s business in midfield, though.
The North London club have also remained heavily linked with Tonali, with reports throughout the window suggesting discussions have taken place as Spurs explore the possibility of landing another high-profile midfielder.
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Earlier in the summer, it was widely reported that Tottenham saw an opening to test Newcastle’s resolve with an £80m bid, but it was knocked back, so any move would require a substantial transfer fee which could amount to £100m.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
This hint comes from Fabrizio Romano, who is one of football’s most recognised transfer journalists, earning a global following through his extensive network of club executives, agents, intermediaries and even players. He is particularly respected for reporting deals once negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with many of his updates later confirmed by clubs or other leading reporters. His trademark ‘here we go’ has become synonymous with agreed deals, and he is among the most respected and reliable sources out there. |
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Finances |
Despite some reports claiming Spurs have a budget just north of £200m this summer, they’re poised to absolutely smash that figure after already agreeing a fee for Mateus Fernandes and signing Jan Paul van Hecke for £52m. Tonali, as per various reports, could set them back another nine figures, and there is Savinho to consider as well, who is still believed to be one of the forwards who De Zerbi is targeting to bolster his squad. Clearly, they have the money to play with, and it far exceeds £200m despite consecutive finishes just above the drop zone. |
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Insight |
Tonali, when at his very best, can be equally useful as both a box-to-box midfielder and deep-lying number six. Eddie Howe has also likened him to Italy legend Andrea Pirlo in terms of playing style, and defender Malick Thiaw was the only Newcastle player entrusted with more Premier League minutes last season than Tonali. |
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Impact |
Tonali would give Tottenham greater control in midfield through his passing, positioning and defensive intelligence. He could anchor the midfield alongside Mateus Fernandes, allowing more attacking players to flourish while adding leadership, composure and big-match experience. His all-round quality would immediately raise the standard and balance of Roberto De Zerbi’s side. |
When you add up wages, bonuses, agent’s fees and additional commissions, the transfer could total a whopping £200m according to Chronicle chief writer Lee Ryder, so Spurs are not messing around.
Tottenham will move for £128m World Cup duo after they sign Sandro Tonali
Spurs are showing ‘great ambition’.
Tonali’s strong links to N17 have now received fresh attention following activity on social media from one of football’s best-known transfer reporters.
Fabrizio Romano drops teasing Sandro Tonali to Tottenham hint on X
Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano posted three teasing emojis in relation to the Tonali situation, prompting widespread speculation among supporters over what the update could mean for Tottenham’s pursuit.
While Romano did not provide any further detail alongside the post, the message quickly fuelled fresh discussion about the midfielder’s future and whether a move could be imminent.
Tonali has established himself as one of the Premier League’s leading central midfielders over the past few seasons.
Why Tonali would be a sensational signing for Tottenham
He first rose to prominence with Brescia, where his mature displays earned comparisons with Italy icons like Andrea Pirlo before AC Milan secured his signature in 2021.
During his time at San Siro, Tonali played a major role in Milan’s Serie A title-winning campaign, combining defensive discipline with excellent distribution and leadership beyond his years.
His performances convinced Newcastle to complete a major transfer in 2023, bringing one of Italy’s standout midfielders to the Premier League.
When finally available after his on-field ban, Tonali demonstrated his ability to dictate the tempo of matches, break up opposition attacks and progress the ball through midfield with calm, accurate passing.
His tactical intelligence also allows him to operate as a holding midfielder, a deep-lying playmaker or as part of a midfield three.
That versatility is one of the reasons Tottenham continue to admire him.
If Spurs eventually succeed in bringing Tonali to North London, they would be adding a player capable of elevating their entire midfield.
Alongside Fernandes, Tonali would offer balance, composure and leadership, while his experience competing in the Champions League could also prove invaluable.
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