Sandro Tonali’s move to Tottenham Hotspur is as good as done. The Italian midfielder had already agreed personal terms, and yesterday, news broke that an agreement had been reached with Newcastle United as well. It is the biggest move in Spurs’ history.
Tottenham Hotspur are showing some real ambition this summer. Many had thought that it would be a matter of signing either Tonali or Mateus Fernandes. They have agreed deals for both on consecutive days.
It is even more remarkable that the club are doing this after back-to-back 17th place seasons. Obviously, some questions are being raised about the ambition of the players joining them as well. That being said, if they continue on this path, they could be challenging for Champions League spots again, sooner than you think.
As for Tonali, he has already broken his silence on moving to Tottenham and leaving Newcastle United. It looks like Roberto De Zerbi played a big role in making the move happen. While speaking to Sky in Italy, the midfielder said:
“De Zerbi played a huge role in this decision… I don’t give him all the credit, but he deserves a lot.”
Tonali explains why he joined Tottenham and relationship with Newcastle upon exit
Of course, it was not just about the Tottenham Hotspur manager. Tonali was very blunt in admitting that the move was driven by a lifestyle choice as well. The Italian midfielder added on the matter:
“It was also a lifestyle and family choice. We had been in Newcastle for three years and last year our lives changed – our son was born, so we decided to completely change our lives.”
Some reports have been floating in the media suggesting that Newcastle United were not happy with how the entire saga played out, especially after how they had backed Tonali during tough times and a ban in the past.
But if Tonali’s comments are anything to go by, it was a decision that everybody is happy with. He said:
“The feelings are positive. It was a bit long, it was difficult. We had an agreement with Newcastle and we parted on very good terms, we talked about it every day.
“They wanted the best for me and we wanted to do the best [deal] for Newcastle, so once you leave like this, it’s different. We’re all happy and I’m ready for this new adventure.”
Newcastle United can become stronger due to Sandro Tonali deal
Well, if that is indeed how it has all played out than there is not much to complain about. Tonali got the move that he wanted. Tottenham got a top player. And Newcastle United brought in a significant transfer fee.
Of course, it does weaken Newcastle United’s squad. And that is the last thing they need after finishing 12th in the Premier League in the previous campaign.
But considering the financial constraints that the Magpies are working under right now, this might be a good chance for them to reinvest that Tonali transfer fee into signing two or three quality players. If they get the recruitment right, it could go a long way in funding the club’s rebuild.
We have already seen signs of that. Newcastle United have agreed on a €50 million deal to sign Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim.
As for replacing Tonali in the middle of the park, it won’t be easy to do. He is a specialist in his role and there are not too many players who have that specific profile.
