Sandro Tonali has completed a club-record £100 million move to Tottenham from Newcastle, with the midfielder revealing that a lengthy conversation with manager Roberto De Zerbi was pivotal in his decision.
Tonali, 26, described the discussion with De Zerbi as "magic," stating it lasted nearly two hours and covered aspects of the club, its supporters, the stadium, and their playing style. He emphasized that the conversation immediately convinced him that Tottenham was the only club he wished to join upon his departure from Newcastle.
"People said about there being four or five clubs - there was only one," Tonali said in London on Monday after finalizing the transfer. "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'm very happy to be here. When I arrived, it felt fantastic. I can't wait to start the season."
De Zerbi, who hails from the same town in northern Italy as Tonali, Brescia, and previously played for AC Milan, expressed his delight in working with the midfielder. "I have followed him for a long time, as he came through the youth system at my hometown club, Brescia," De Zerbi said. "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. Sandro is a special player and a great signing for our club."
Tonali joined Newcastle in 2023 from AC Milan. His first season in English football was largely disrupted by a 10-month ban for gambling offenses. Upon his return, he became a key part of Newcastle's midfield, contributing to their League Cup victory in 2025.
In a social media message to Newcastle supporters, Tonali reflected on his time on Tyneside. "Three years ago I came to Newcastle not really knowing what to expect. Today it's time to say goodbye and it's hard to find the right words. Above all, I want to speak directly to the fans. When things were hard for me, you were there. Not for one day did I feel alone. I felt it every time I was at St James' Park. That's something I will carry with me for the rest of my life."
The transfer record-breaking move for Tonali saw Tottenham surpass their previous highest fee. The club also secured Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million. Tottenham's sporting director, Johan Lange, noted Tonali's qualities, stating, "Sandro is one of the best midfielders in Europe. 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."