Sandro Tonali's record-breaking £100 million move to Tottenham was sealed in just "10 minutes" after a meeting with manager Roberto de Zerbi. The midfielder revealed that a shared connection to their boyhood club, Brescia, was a significant factor in his decision.

De Zerbi, who grew up a Brescia fan, initiated contact with Tonali after Tottenham secured Premier League survival. A subsequent meeting at Tonali's home solidified the move, with the midfielder stating that his positive impression of De Zerbi and the club was immediate. Despite interest from other clubs, Tonali found the decision to join Spurs to be an easy one.

Tonali acknowledged the £100 million transfer fee will bring pressure but expressed his desire to remain a "normal" player. He also emphasized that the move was not due to unhappiness at Newcastle, praising his former manager Eddie Howe. Ultimately, the lure of London, De Zerbi, and Tottenham's recruitment staff, combined with the impossibility of a return to Italy due to transfer fees, made Spurs the ideal choice for Tonali and his family.