Tonali and De Zerbi break silence as Tottenham seal Newcastle’s 2nd-biggest sale | OneFootball

Sandro Tonali reveals he spoke to Roberto De Zerbi ‘for close to two hours’ before joining Tottenham while Newcastle confirm that the Italian’s sale is the ‘second-largest fee ever received for a player’ in the club’s history.

Tottenham and Newcastle officially confirmed Tonali’s move to North London on Monday morning, with the Italian midfielder releasing his first interview as a Spurs player on the club’s official website.

“I’m very happy to be here. When I arrived at the Club today, it felt fantastic. People said about there being four or five clubs – there was only one,” said the Italy star.

Tonali breaks silence on Tottenham transfer and chat with De Zerbi

“I spoke to the Head Coach for close to two hours about the Club, the fans, the stadium and our football. It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham. I’ve played against Tottenham a few times and always found a great atmosphere made by great fans. I can’t wait to start the season.”

The strong bond with Italian coach De Zerbi clearly played a big role in Tonali’s decision to move to North London.

Tonali was born in Lodi, while De Zerbi comes from Brescia, two towns in the Lombardy region, only 80 km apart, about an hour’s drive.

Both played for Brescia at different times in their careers, and while De Zerbi is a product of the Milan Academy who never made his senior debut with the Rossoneri, Tonali played for Milan’s first team and won the Scudetto in 2021-22.

“Sandro is a special player and a great signing for our Club,” De Zerbi said.

“I have followed him for a long time, as he came through the youth system at my hometown club, Brescia, and I’m so happy to be working with him now. Given his qualities, there was a lot of interest in Sandro this summer. However, he was very clear in his desire to join Tottenham, and I know our fans will love what he brings to the team.”

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 13: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United arrives at the ground prior to kick off wearing the new Adidas terrace icons track top and glasses during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James’ Park on September 13, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The deal is reportedly worth €115m, including add-ons, making Tonali the most expensive Italian footballer ever.

Although the official fee remains undisclosed, Newcastle confirm that Tonali’s sale is the “second-largest fee ever received for a player” in the club’s history.