Tottenham Hotspur are 'closer than ever' to agreeing a deal to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United after making a new offer for the midfielder, according to transfer journalist Gianluca di Marzio.
Tonali is wanted by several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City, all of whom have considered luring him away from St James' Park this summer. Manchester United hold the Italian in high regard, while Arsenal's interest has reportedly stalled due to Tonali's wage demands, with the Gunners now focusing on his Newcastle teammate Bruno Guimaraes.
Spurs hijack move with improved bid
Tottenham have moved to hijack any potential move for the former AC Milan star. An initial offer worth close to £80 million was rejected by Newcastle, but a fresh bid from north London has left Spurs on the brink of finalising a deal. Di Marzio reports that Tottenham 'have never been closer' than they are now to securing Tonali's signature.
The club have held fresh talks with Newcastle, having made a new offer of 'slightly above' €100 million (£86 million). Tottenham are now awaiting Newcastle's final response to the proposal.
Mateus Fernandes deal also secured
The pursuit of Tonali comes after Tottenham beat Manchester United in the race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. The Portuguese midfielder is expected to arrive in a huge £85 million deal, further strengthening Ange Postecoglou's squad.
United had been keen on Fernandes, but Spurs moved swiftly to secure the transfer. The double swoop signals Tottenham's intent to compete at the highest level this summer.
More updates are expected as negotiations progress.
