Fabrizio Romano stops teasing Sandro Tonali suggestion on social media as Tottenham deal looms
Tottenham’s midfield rebuild has continued to gain momentum after the club secured an £85 million deal to sign Mateus Fernandes, with Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali front and centre.
Fernandes is expected to be one of the headlines of the summer as Roberto De Zerbi overhauls the core of his squad ahead of the new campaign.
Fernandes’ arrival is not expected to end Tottenham’s midfield business.
The North London club have also been heavily linked with Tonali, with reports throughout the window suggesting talks have taken place as Spurs look to land another top-class midfielder.
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At the start of the summer, it was widely reported that Tottenham had seen an opening to test Newcastle’s decision with an £80m bid, but it was knocked back, so any move would require a transfer fee of up to £100m.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
This suggestion comes from Fabrizio Romano, one of the most respected transfer journalists in football, who gains fans around the world with his large network of club managers, agents, consultants and even players. He is well respected for reporting on deals once negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with many of his updates later confirmed by clubs or other leading journalists. His trademark ‘here we go’ has become synonymous with negotiated deals, and he is among the most respected and trusted sources out there. |
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Finance |
Despite reports that Spurs have a budget just north of £200m this summer, they are poised to smash that figure after agreeing to pay Mateus Fernandes and sign Jan Paul van Hecke for £52m. Tonali, according to various reports, could set them back another nine figures, and there is also Savinho to consider, who is believed to be one of the top players De Zerbi has targeted to strengthen his squad. Clearly, they have the money to play with, and it’s well over £200m despite successive finishes just above the relegation zone. |
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Understanding |
Tonali, when at his best, can be equally useful as a box-to-box midfielder and a deep-lying number six. Eddie Howe also compared him to Italian legend Andrea Pirlo in terms of playing style, and defender Malick Thiaw was the only Newcastle player entrusted with more Premier League minutes last season than Tonali. |
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Impact |
Tonali will give Tottenham great control in midfield with his passing, positioning and defensive acumen. He could strengthen the midfield alongside Mateus Fernandes, allowing more attacking players to flourish while adding leadership, composure and big-game experience. His overall quality will immediately raise the level and balance of Roberto De Zerbi’s side. |
If you include wages, bonuses, agent fees and additional commissions, the transfer could cost £200m according to Chronicle senior writer Lee Ryder, so Spurs are not playing.
Tottenham to make £128m move for two World Cup players after signing Sandro Tonali
Spurs show ‘great desire’.
Tonali’s strong links to N17 have now received new attention following activity on social media from one of football’s most famous transfer journalists.
Fabrizio Romano stops teasing Sandro Tonali at Tottenham to suggest X
Transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano posted three teasing emojis regarding Tonali’s situation, prompting widespread speculation among fans as to what the update could mean for Tottenham’s pursuit.
While Romano did not provide any further details alongside the post, the message quickly sparked new discussion about the midfielder’s future and the possibility of a move.
Tonali has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League over the past few seasons.
Why Tonali would be a surprise signing for Tottenham
He first rose to prominence with Brescia, where his mature displays earned comparisons with Italian icons such as Andrea Pirlo before AC Milan secured his signature in 2021.
During his time at San Siro, Tonali played a key role in Milan’s Serie A title-winning campaign, combining defensive discipline with good distribution and leadership beyond his years.
His performances ensured Newcastle completed a massive transfer in 2023, bringing one of Italy’s best midfielders to the Premier League.
When he was finally available after his ban on the pitch, Tonali showed his ability to dictate the tempo of games, break up opposition attacks and advance the ball in midfield with calm, accurate passing.
His tactical intelligence also allows him to operate as a midfielder, a deep-lying player or as part of a central midfield trio.
That versatility is one of the reasons why Tottenham continue to admire him.
If Spurs succeed in bringing Tonali to North London, they will be adding a player who can lift the whole field.
Alongside Fernandes, Tonali will provide balance, composure and leadership, while his experience of competing in the Champions League could also prove invaluable.
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