Sandro Tonali has confirmed he was keen to depart Newcastle United in search of a new challenge but insists he has left St James' Park on the best of terms. The Italian midfielder made his desire to move on from Newcastle clear before the Magpies held firm for a staggering £100 million fee from Tottenham Hotspur.
Tonali's Statement on the Transfer
Speaking to television journalists at the airport in Milan, Tonali expressed satisfaction with the deal: "Absolutely. We've decided to make a change, so we're ready for this new adventure." He added, "Newcastle wanted the best for me and we wanted the best deal for them. So I think that once you go like this it is different, so we are all happy and I am ready for the new challenge."
Role of Roberto De Zerbi
When asked about his reasons for choosing Spurs, Tonali credited manager Roberto De Zerbi: "Let's say Roberto De Zerbi had a big percentage in this, and for a life choice, we come from Newcastle and our lives change with our child's birth. So we decided to change a bit. De Zerbi made a great difference and did the job very well."
Transfer Details and Interest from Other Clubs
Newcastle were informed of Tonali's wish to leave through his agent Giuseppe Riso earlier this month. Several clubs were approached, including Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham. Spurs emerged as the destination as they were the only club to meet all requirements regarding the transfer fee, agent costs, and his £275,000-per-week salary.
No Return to Italy
Tonali ruled out a return to Italian football this window, despite speculation linking him with AC Milan and Juventus. He said, "It's always been very difficult. We've talked, but this opportunity has never arisen." He also quipped that he would welcome the chance to play for Milan again in the future, the club for which Newcastle paid £55 million in 2023.
