Tottenham have completed the signing of Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United in a deal worth up to £100 million, with the 25-year-old revealing that a lengthy conversation with head coach Roberto De Zerbi convinced him to make the move.
The transfer, Tottenham’s most expensive signing, is understood to include an initial payment of £92.5 million, with a further £7.5 million in performance-related add-ons after Newcastle rejected an earlier £80 million offer.
Despite interest from several clubs, Tonali said there was only one destination he wanted after speaking with De Zerbi.
Tonali said: “I’m very happy to be here. 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.”
De Zerbi welcomed the arrival of his compatriot, describing Tonali as one of the club’s priority targets during the transfer window.
The Tottenham manager said: “Sandro is a special player and a great signing for our Club.
“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.”
Tonali leaves Newcastle after three seasons in which he helped the club end its 70-year wait for a major trophy by winning the Carabao Cup in 2025.
His time at St James’ Park also included a 10-month suspension for betting offences, but the midfielder became a fans’ favourite and paid tribute to the club, manager Eddie Howe, his teammates and supporters in an emotional farewell message.
Tonali wrote: “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.
“I want to start by thanking the club. To the people who work every day and nobody sees at the training ground, everyone who welcomed me and made me feel at home from the very first day.
“Thank you to the staff and my teammates for believing in me and helping me grow.
“A special mention to the gaffer, Eddie, who’s been a real guiding figure and who always had my back throughout this journey.”
Reflecting on the support he received during difficult moments, Tonali added: “But 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.
“Together, we achieved something this city had been waiting decades for.
“At Wembley that day, it was special, a historic moment we got to share together.
“To the fans who never stopped believing, who never stopped cheering for this club, who were there in the hardest times, that trophy was for you.”
The Italy international also reflected on the personal impact Newcastle had on his family.
He wrote: “The game brought me to Newcastle.
“Today I leave with my wife and our son, born during my time here.
“This city gave me more than football.
“It gave me a home, moments I’ll hold onto forever, and people I will always be grateful for.
“Thank you for everything.”