Tottenham Complete Club-Record Deal For Sandro Tonali

Tottenham have completed the signing of Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United in a club-record deal worth up to £100 million.

Sandro Tonali, 26, leaves St James’ Park after three seasons, with Spurs agreeing to pay an initial £92.5m, plus a further £7.5m in performance-related add-ons. Newcastle had earlier rejected an offer of about £80m before the two clubs struck an agreement.

Tonali said his decision was straightforward despite reports linking him with several clubs.

“I’m very happy to be here,” he said. “People said there were four or five clubs, but there was only one.

“I spoke to the head coach [Roberto de Zerbi] for close to two hours about the club, the fans, the stadium and our football.

“It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham. I’ve played against Tottenham a few times and always found a great atmosphere made by great fans. I can’t wait to start the season.”

Tonali becomes Tottenham’s second major signing of the summer after Mateus Fernandes arrived from West Ham United in an £85m move.

The Italy international joined Newcastle from AC Milan for £55m in July 2023 but was handed a 10-month suspension by the Italian Football Federation for breaching betting regulations shortly after his arrival.

He returned to become one of Newcastle’s most influential players, helping the club lift the Carabao Cup in 2025 to end a 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy.

In a farewell message to Newcastle supporters, Tonali thanked everyone connected with the club.

“Thank you to the staff and my teammates for believing in me and helping me grow,” he wrote.

“A special mention to the gaffer, Eddie, who’s been a real guiding figure and who always had my back throughout this journey.

“This city gave me more than football. It gave me a home, moments I’ll hold onto forever, and people I will always be grateful for. Thank you for everything.”

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi described his new signing as a player he had admired for years.

“I have followed him for a long time, as he came through the youth system at my hometown club, Brescia, and I’m so happy to be working with him now,” he said.

“Given his qualities, there was a lot of interest in Sandro this summer. However, he was very clear in his desire to join Tottenham, and I know our fans will love what he brings to the team.”

Spurs have been one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market after finishing 17th in the Premier League last season, just two points above the relegation zone. Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi have joined on free transfers, while the club could spend a combined £237m on Jan Paul van Hecke, Fernandes and Tonali.

Sporting director Johan Lange believes the midfielder is ready for the challenge ahead.

“He has outstanding technical quality to go with real football intelligence, and has the character to thrive in a demanding, high-pressure environment,” he said.

Naija News gathered that Sandro Tonali will wear the No.16 jersey at Tottenham Hotspur next season.