Sandro Tonali has revealed details of a "magic" conversation with Roberto De Zerbi that convinced him to sign for Tottenham Hotspur. The Italian midfielder spoke to the Spurs boss at length before sealing a sensational £100 million move from Newcastle United to north London, stating that after that talk, there was only ever one club he wanted to join.
Tonali's Decision
Tottenham fought off competition from a number of rivals, including Arsenal and Manchester City, to secure Tonali's signature. The midfielder admitted that De Zerbi was a key reason behind his decision. Tonali is not the first Spurs signing this summer to mention the influence De Zerbi had on their choice to join, adding that he knew immediately that Spurs was the right club for him.
"I'm very happy to be here," Tonali, who has been given the No. 16 shirt, told Tottenham's official website. "When I arrived at the club today, it felt fantastic. People said about there being four or five clubs - there was only one. I spoke to the head coach for close to two hours about the club, the fans, the stadium and our football. It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham. I've played against Tottenham a few times and always found a great atmosphere made by great fans. I can't wait to start the season."
Transfer Record Smashed
Tottenham have now broken their transfer record twice in the space of just four days, with Mateus Fernandes having joined from rivals West Ham United last week for £85 million as the club completely overhauls its midfield options. Despite the high fees involved, De Zerbi was determined to get both signings over the line.
"Sandro is a special player and a great signing for our club," De Zerbi added. "I have followed him for a long time, as he came through the youth system at my hometown club, Brescia, and I'm so happy to be working with him now. Given his qualities, there was a lot of interest in Sandro this summer. However, he was very clear in his desire to join Tottenham, and I know our fans will love what he brings to the team."
Sixth Summer Signing
Tonali is the sixth signing of the summer for Spurs as they look to bounce back following consecutive 17th-place finishes in the Premier League and a near-disastrous battle against relegation that was only averted on the final day of the season. He follows Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, and Martin Dubravka in making the move to Tottenham, with more new faces expected.
"Sandro is one of the best midfielders in Europe and we are delighted to welcome him to the club," said Spurs' sporting director Johan Lange. "He has outstanding technical quality to go with real football intelligence, and has the character to thrive in a demanding, high-pressure environment. Sandro brings valuable experience at the highest level, both domestically and in European competition, and I know our supporters will love his energy and commitment on the pitch. We are all excited to see him pull on our famous Lilywhite shirt for the first time."
