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Tottenham target Newcastle's Tonali in £100m summer pursuit

BBC Sport Football •
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Tottenham Hotspur have joined the race to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, who could command a fee approaching £100m this summer. Despite Newcastle finishing above Spurs in three of the last four Premier League campaigns, the London club holds a significant financial advantage with £230m more revenue in their most recent accounts. This financial headroom allows Tottenham to raise their salary ceiling and pursue established talent.

Chief executive Vinai Venkatesham outlined the club's strategy in May, targeting players with experience, leadership and physical robustness. Tonali embodies this profile perfectly. The Italian international delivered his best Newcastle season in 2024-25, winning possession back 109 times, making 34 interceptions and registering 1,308 high-pressure movements. Manager Eddie Howe once admitted falling in love with Tonali's all-round qualities after first watching him play.

However, Newcastle face a delicate balancing act. While Howe would prefer keeping core players like Tonali, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, the club must become more effective sellers during their rebuild phase. Recent form suggests Tonali's performances have dipped, potentially making him available at the right price. A £100m offer would test Newcastle's resolve given their financial restructuring needs.

Tottenham's approach reflects their ambition to bridge the gap with Newcastle on the pitch while leveraging their superior financial position. The pursuit represents a significant statement of intent from Daniel Levy's board as they seek proven Premier League performers to strengthen Postecoglou's squad.