Newcastle United have agreed a deal worth £100m for Sandro Tonali, with the Italy international set to leave St James' Park for Tottenham Hotspur. The Magpies had rejected an £80m bid from Spurs earlier this month, holding out for a fee closer to their valuation.
Deal Structure and Contract Details
The initial fee is £93m, with a further £7m in potential add-ons. Tonali is expected to sign a six-year contract worth £275,000 per week. The agreement was negotiated by Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson and sporting director Ross Wilson.
Reinvestment Pledge
Chronicle Live understands that the proceeds from Tonali's sale will be reinvested into the squad, with Newcastle targeting "high potential talent" as replacements. Hopkinson had stated in March that the club would only accept sales on their terms, a stance that proved pivotal in this deal.
Agent Influence and Other Interest
Close links between Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi and agent Giuseppe Riso were a significant factor. Riso had also approached Arsenal, but the Gunners declined due to Tonali's wage demands and a 10% agent fee. Late interest from Manchester City was unsuccessful as Tonali had already committed to Spurs.
Quotes from Key Figures
Speaking in March, Riso said: "Exactly, that was the goal from the moment he went to England – to try to make him a star player. I think he’s the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world." Hopkinson added: "We think through what players might or might not want to do this summer. But if an Isak-like scenario presents itself again, any player under contract is going to leave on our terms."
