Sandro Tonali is believed to have agreed a personal package in principle with Tottenham Hotspur after talks with his agency GR Sports, according to Lee Ryder, Chief Newcastle United Writer for Chronicle Live. The Italy international, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan for £55m in 2023, has been offered a six-year deal worth approximately £275,000 per week.
Newcastle holding out for £100m
Newcastle United rejected an £80m offer for Tonali earlier this month and are determined to hold out for a fee of £100m, nearly doubling the price they paid three years ago. If Spurs meet Newcastle's valuation, the deal could be processed within the next week. A £100m fee would smash Tottenham's current record transfer, the £51.8m paid for Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig last summer.
Agent hints at exit
Tonali's agent, Giuseppe Riso, has previously suggested the player could leave Newcastle. 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." He added: "The deal came about because a club like Newcastle, with unlimited financial resources, had decided to invest in Sandro. We considered the idea of having the player play in a higher-level league."
Spurs manager connection
Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi is believed to have a close relationship with Riso, which may have facilitated the talks. Unlike the earlier Bruno Guimaraes transfer saga, Spurs have made a concrete offer for Tonali rather than engaging solely through intermediaries.
Newcastle's stance
Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson addressed the possibility of a Tonali sale three months ago, stating: "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 and we’re going to maximise the opportunity that might represent for the club."
Newcastle are frustrated by leaks from third parties during what has been a tough summer, but remain determined to stick to their transfer plans. The sale of Tonali could open up opportunities for head coach Eddie Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson to strengthen the squad.
