Tottenham Hotspur have lodged a £75 million bid for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to Sky Sport Italy. The offer marks the first formal negotiation between the two clubs for the Italy international, who has also attracted interest from Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City.
Newcastle's response and expected deal
Newcastle have responded by demanding £85 million for the 26-year-old, though sources indicate that an agreement at around £80 million could be reached within the next few days. The Magpies are adamant they will not sell Tonali unless their valuation is met, and his representatives have been informed of this stance.
De Zerbi's long-standing admiration
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has been a keen admirer of Tonali since the midfielder's early days at Brescia. 'I wanted to bring Tonali to Sassuolo, if I'd stayed, after his first year at AC Milan,' De Zerbi said during his time at Brighton. 'I saw him at Brescia and thought he was the player he proved to be.' De Zerbi sees Tonali as a key part of his Spurs midfield.
Tonali's Newcastle contract and background
Newcastle signed Tonali from AC Milan for £55 million three years ago. During his 10-month gambling ban, the club agreed a new contract with him that extends his stay at St James' Park until 2029. Reports earlier this week suggested Newcastle believe Spurs' public interest in Tonali was intended to flush out a bid from Arsenal, who attempted to sign him in the January transfer window.
