Jul 2, 2026

De Zerbi’s Pull Lures Tonali to Spurs in Record £100m Deal

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in sport

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London, England – July 2, 2026 – Sandro Tonali has opened up about his impending move to Tottenham Hotspur, revealing that new head coach Roberto De Zerbi played a pivotal role in convincing him to join the club in what is set to be a club-record transfer worth up to £100 million from Newcastle United.

“For sure Roberto De Zerbi has been crucial for me to join Spurs. He played a big role,” the Italy international told reporters.

“I can’t wait to work with him.” The 26-year-old midfielder’s comments come as Tottenham finalizes a deal that includes an initial £92.5 million fee plus add-ons, eclipsing their previous transfer records.

A Statement Signing for De Zerbi’s Project

De Zerbi, who took over at Spurs this summer, has quickly made his mark by targeting high-quality reinforcements to elevate the team’s midfield and overall competitiveness.

Tonali, known for his tenacity, technical ability, leadership, and box-to-box dynamism, fits perfectly into the Italian coach’s vision of an energetic, possession-dominant side.

The move represents a major coup for Tottenham. Despite interest from clubs like Manchester City and Arsenal, Tonali was drawn to the opportunity to reunite with De Zerbi — a manager he clearly respects and trusts.

Reports indicate the player secured a lucrative contract worth over £275,000 per week, reflecting Spurs’ ambition under new ownership and managerial direction.

Tonali also cited lifestyle and family considerations as factors in choosing London over other potential destinations.

The deal, alongside Tottenham’s signing of Mateus Fernandes, signals a busy and determined summer window as the club aims to challenge for top honors.

From Newcastle to North London

The Italy international joined Newcastle in 2023 amid high expectations but faced challenges adapting to the Premier League’s intensity and off-field issues.

Under De Zerbi’s guidance at Spurs, fans and pundits hope Tonali can rediscover the sparkling form that once made him one of Europe’s most promising midfielders during his time at AC Milan.

De Zerbi’s influence appears decisive. The coach’s reputation for developing players and his tactical acumen have evidently resonated with Tonali, who expressed genuine excitement about the partnership ahead.

As the transfer nears completion, Tottenham supporters are buzzing with anticipation.

A midfield anchored by Tonali could provide the steel and creativity needed to push Spurs back into the Champions League conversation and beyond.

For Tonali, this represents a fresh start under a trusted manager in one of football’s most passionate environments.

“I can’t wait to work with him,” he said — words that encapsulate both personal ambition and club-wide optimism at the start of a promising new era.