Sandro Tonali is on the brink of completing a remarkable transfer to Tottenham Hotspur, confirming that his decision to leave Newcastle United was influenced by lifestyle and family considerations. The Italian midfielder, formerly of AC Milan, is poised to become the most expensive Italian footballer ever as he prepares to reunite with fellow countryman Roberto De Zerbi in north London.

De Zerbi’s influence proves decisive

Tottenham have secured a major signing by agreeing a £100 million deal for Tonali. The 26-year-old revealed that the presence of the Italian manager at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium played a pivotal role in his choice to leave the North East.

In an interview with Sky Sport, Tonali elaborated on the negotiations: “The discussions took some time. We had an understanding with Newcastle, we spoke daily and eventually reached an agreement. They wanted the best for me, and we wanted the best for them. We parted on excellent terms, everyone’s happy, and I’m ready for this new adventure.”

Explaining his decision to join Tottenham, Tonali said: “De Zerbi had a huge influence. It’s also a lifestyle and family decision after three years at Newcastle. De Zerbi deserves much of the credit — not just as a fellow Brescia native and friend, but as someone who works tirelessly and is fully committed to his role.”

A record-breaking deal for Spurs

The total financial package for Tonali is expected to surpass Tottenham’s previous record of £85 million, set by the recent signing of Mateus Fernandes, underlining the club’s ambitious direction under current management. Tonali, who has already travelled to London with his representatives and wife, is eager to begin his new chapter.

“We’ll take things step by step: medicals, signing, and then heading to the training camp. The team will be ready in a month as the World Cup approaches. The club had a tough season, but we’ll work to make sure everything goes smoothly,” said Tonali, outlining his immediate plans.

Eyeing an Azzurri comeback

Despite his enthusiasm for the Premier League, Tonali remains deeply connected to Italy and the national team. He voiced his wish to see former AC Milan director Paolo Maldini join the Azzurri setup — a move that could also benefit his international future. “My aim is to return to the World Cup. It’s painful to miss it for the third time. I’ll talk to Maldini; working with him again, even in the national team, would be wonderful after everything he achieved at Milan. He’s a legend and an exceptional person,” Tonali remarked.

New look for Spurs’ midfield

Tonali departs Newcastle having re-established his reputation following a high-profile suspension, becoming a vital part of the Magpies’ midfield alongside Bruno Guimaraes. His arrival in north London completes a major revamp of Tottenham’s midfield, giving De Zerbi the technical skill and tactical discipline vital to his system.

With his legal troubles behind him and his prime years still ahead, Tonali’s addition is viewed as the final piece in Tottenham’s push to rejoin Europe’s elite. The Italian international now aims to blend his Serie A and Premier League experience into a successful spell in the capital, strengthened by his family’s support and De Zerbi’s guidance.