Sandro Tonali has been offered a massive £86million, six-year deal by Tottenham Hotspur to join the club from Newcastle United. The Italy international is a top summer target for Spurs, who have agreed a personal package worth £275k-a-week with Tonali's agency, GR Sports.
What happened?
Tottenham saw an £80million offer for Tonali rejected earlier this month, and were told to return with a higher bid. The new offer is a significant increase, but Newcastle are still holding out for £100m.
Why it matters for Sandro Tonali
The deal would be a record transfer fee for Spurs, who paid £51.8m for Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig last summer. Tonali's agent, Giuseppe Riso, has spoken about the player's potential exit from Newcastle, saying that the goal was to make him a star player in a higher-level league.
What comes next?
Newcastle are determined to stick to their transfer plans, and have a process in place to get deals done regardless of financial restrictions. But while they are keen to keep Tonali, a big-money sale could open doors for head coach Eddie Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson.
Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi is believed to be close with Tonali's agent, Giuseppe Riso. In March, Riso was asked about a possible exit from Tyneside to potentially Arsenal or Manchester City, and said that the goal was to make Tonali a star player.
Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson said three months ago that the club would consider selling Tonali if an offer like the one they received for Alexander Isak presented itself. Hopkinson said that any player under contract would leave on the club's terms, and that they would maximise the opportunity for the club.
The total cost of the deal, including bonuses, could be worth £200m. This would be a significant outlay for Spurs, but they are keen to sign Tonali and make him a key player in their squad.
Tonali joined Newcastle for £55m from AC Milan in 2023. He has been a key player for the Magpies, and his departure would be a significant loss. But the offer from Tottenham is a tempting one, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle will accept it.
The transfer window is open, and Spurs are keen to get their business done quickly. They have already made one significant signing, and are looking to add more players to their squad. Tonali would be a major coup, and would help to strengthen their midfield.
The deal is not yet done, but it is likely to be completed in the coming days. Tottenham are confident that they can sign Tonali, and are willing to pay a significant fee to get him. Newcastle are holding out for £100m, but may be willing to accept a lower offer if it is the right one for the club.
The situation is complex, and there are many factors at play. But one thing is certain - Sandro Tonali is a key player, and his future is of great interest to football fans around the world.