Tottenham are plotting a statement move. Roberto De Zerbi has made Sandro Tonali his top midfield target this summer as he tries to reshape Spurs into a side that can actually control games.
After dragging Tottenham away from a relegation scrap last season, Deborah Zerbi knows exactly what's missing, technical quality in the middle of the park. Someone who can receive under pressure, dictate tempo, and make Spurs play on the front foot. In his eyes, Tonali ticks every box.
The Italy International has been identified as the ideal candidate for the role. It's not just random link. De Zerbi will have a big say on transfers this window, and pushing hard for Tonali would send a clear message Spurs are serious about backing their coach and spending big to improve the squad.
THE PROBLEM? NEWCASTLE DON'T WANT TO SELL
Tonali is contracted until 2029 after signing his deal in 2024 while serving a 10 month gambling ban. Crucially, there's no release clause. That puts Newcastle in complete control. They've already lost Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69m this summer, and there's zero appetite to lose another key player.
If Spurs want him, they'll have to pay a huge fee in a market where Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is being quoted at £100m+, don't expect Newcastle to budge for anything less than world record midfield money.
Tonali would've been on Arsenal, Man City, and Man United's radar too. But both Manchester clubs have moved in other directions for now city are chasing Anderson, United have agreed a deal for Atlanta's Ederson and are now after West Ham's Mateus Fernandes. That could give Spurs a window, but only if they're willing to break the bank.
SPURS WIDER REBUILD UNDER DE ZERBI
This Tonali pursuit is part of a bigger plan. Spurs have already moved early, landing center back Marcos Senesi and left back Andy Robertson on free transfers. Another defender is wanted too, with Brighton's Jan Paul van Hecke high on the list.
It's not all one way traffic though. Brighton have bid £30m for teenage center back Luka Vuskovic after his breakout loan at Hamburg. The 19 year old is keen on the move, but Spurs aren't accepting that offer yet.
De Zerbi's style demands specific profiles. Finding a midfielder who can dictate play is priority number one, but he also wants:
1. A winger to finally replace Heung Min Son moves for Bryan Mbeumo and Antoine Semenyo failed, with Man City's Savinho now on the list.
2. Another striker who can play across the front line, especially with Spurs injury problems last season.
3. A goalkeeper if Guglielmo Vicario leave for Juventus or Inter. Antonin Kinsky finished last season as No.1 under De Zerbi.
Don't rule out Joao Palhinha either. A permanent deal from Bayern Munich is still possible if Spurs can agree a fee after the option expired. Sporting are also in the race.
ANALYSIS: STATEMENT INTENT, BRUTAL NEGOTIATION
Chasing Tonali tells you everything about De Zerbi's vision. He wants a midfielder who can run his system, not just fill a shirt. But Newcastle hold all the cards long contract, no clause, and they've already sold Gordon.
For Spurs, it's simple: back the manager with serious cash, or watch Tonali stay at St James Park. One thing's for sure if they pull this off, it'll be the signing that defines De Zerbi's era at Tottenham.
What do you think Spurs fans is Tonali worth breaking the transfer record for?
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