The battle for Sandro Tonali is taking a sharp turn. And for Manchester United fans hoping the Italian would anchor their midfield rebuild, the news out of north London stings.
Tottenham have entered the race to sign the Newcastle United star, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. The journalist, known for his close ties to deals across Europe, reported on social media that Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi has made Tonali his top target. Romano wrote: “EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham have entered the race to sign Sandro Tonali! De Zerbi wants Tonali as new star for the midfield, ideal to step up #THFC level. Spurs ready to face Man City and Arsenal in the race for Tonali for new ambitious project to prove their intentions.”
But it doesn’t stop there. Romano later revealed on his YouTube channel that the 25-year-old is ready to make the move to Spurs — even if it means no European football this season. “Sandro Tonali is keen on a move to Tottenham; he is ready to make a move to Spurs. Tonali is attracted by the project and wants to play under De Zerbi, as they share a very close connection, even without Europe! Could take £85m package,” Romano said.
That price tag — reported to be around £85 million — would make Tonali one of the most expensive midfielders in Premier League history. But for a player who has started 79 league matches for Newcastle since arriving from AC Milan in 2023, the investment might be worth it. Last season alone, Tonali scored three goals and added seven assists across 53 appearances in all competitions, showing the two-way impact that has earned him admirers across the league.
Manchester United had been circling Tonali as a proven Premier League option to partner with a younger midfield core. The Red Devils are already closing in on Atalanta’s Ederson as a replacement for Casemiro, and with Manuel Ugarte likely on his way out, adding experience was a priority. United had also been linked with West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson — though Anderson is expected to join Manchester City.
Now, with Tottenham and City both in the mix, United may be forced to shift focus entirely. De Zerbi’s personal connection to Tonali — the two reportedly share a strong bond from their time in Italy — gives Spurs a clear edge in negotiations. The midfielder is under contract with Newcastle through 2028, so the Magpies are in no rush to sell. But a player who wants out and a club willing to pay top dollar could accelerate a deal.
For INEOS and the United front office, the message is clear: if Tonali prefers Tottenham, chasing him is a losing game. The smart play may be to redirect resources toward Fernandes or another Premier League-tested target. But for now, London is looking like the next home for one of Serie A’s finest exports.
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