“Sandro is a special player and a great signing” — Tottenham smash record to land Tonali in £100m deal | OneFootball

Roberto De Zerbi has said Sandro Tonali is a 'special player' after Tottenham Hotspur completed a club record deal for the Newcastle midfielder.

Tonali has signed for Spurs in a deal that could reach £100m with add-ons. The North Londoners have paid Newcastle an initial £92.5m, plus £7.5m in potential future fees.

The deal means Tottenham have now broken their transfer record twice this summer, following the £85m capture of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham earlier in the window.

At Tonali's unveiling, Spurs boss De Zerbi backed the 26-year-old to be a 'great signing'.

"Sandro is a special player and a great signing for our Club," he toldtottenhamhotspur.com.

"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."

“It was like magic” — Tonali reveals chat with De Zerbi after Spurs seal club-record move

Tonali spoke of his delight that the deal has been done and said his first conversation with De Zerbi was like 'magic', immediately persuading him to move to the capital.

The Italy international had interest from rivalPremier League clubs, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United having made enquiries.

"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.

"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."