Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a deal to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United for a reported €117m package, according to David Ornstein. The move comes as a blow to Manchester United, who were also interested in the Italy international midfielder.
Spurs submitted an improved offer which Newcastle accepted, with personal terms also agreed with Tonali. Manchester United were ultimately unwilling to match the financial demands of the transfer, having recently deemed a similar deal for Mateus Fernandes, who will cost Spurs €98m, as excessive. This represents a significant coup for Tottenham as they bolster their midfield options.
Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan last summer and quickly established himself as a key player, making 39 appearances across all competitions. He has earned 15 caps for the Italian national team and is known for his tackling, passing range, and defensive work rate. The midfielder’s departure from Newcastle will leave a void in their midfield, but the substantial fee will allow them to reinvest in the squad.
Manchester United are now reassessing their midfield transfer plans following the loss of both Tonali and Fernandes. Fabrizio Romano reports that a move for Aurelien Tchouameni, previously considered a “dream target”, is now unlikely due to the associated costs. The club are also monitoring Alex Scott at Bournemouth, but the Cherries are reluctant to sell, and any deal would exceed €80m. United may need to wait later in the transfer window to secure their second midfield addition after the arrival of Ederson.
Meanwhile, there is a growing possibility that Marcus Rashford will remain at Manchester United this summer. After completing a loan spell at Barcelona on June 30th, Rashford is currently with England at the World Cup, but is open to returning to Carrington for pre-season under Michael Carrick. Romano states Rashford is “not closing doors” to the possibility of restarting his career with the club, although an eight-week window remains for potential offers. Rashford’s potential stay could impact United’s pursuit of a new left-winger, with a move for Crysencio Summerville of West Ham contingent on Rashford’s departure.
