Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali says it “feels fantastic” to join Tottenham Hotspur after completing his move from Newcastle United, describing the decision as an easy one after an extensive conversation with the club’s head coach.
The 26-year-old Italy international has signed for Spurs, subject to receiving a work permit, bringing an end to his stay at the St. James’ Park where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable midfielders. His arrival is regarded as a major addition to Tottenham’s squad as the club prepares for the 2026/27 campaign under new head coach Roberto De Zerbi after battling for Premier League survival last term.
Speaking after the transfer was confirmed, Tonali revealed that there was never any real uncertainty over his next destination despite speculation linking him with several clubs during the transfer window.
According to the midfielder, Tottenham quickly became his only choice. “I’m very happy to be here. When I arrived at the Club today, it felt fantastic,” Tonali said, adding that although reports suggested there were several clubs interested in signing him, “there was only one” option for him.
He explained that a lengthy discussion with De Zerbi convinced him that Tottenham was the right place for the next chapter of his career. Tonali said the pair spoke for nearly two hours about the club, its supporters, the stadium and the team’s football philosophy, describing the meeting as “like magic” because he immediately knew he wanted to become a Spurs player.
Club Delighted With Marquee Addition
Tonali also spoke warmly about Tottenham’s supporters, recalling the impressive atmosphere he experienced whenever he faced the North London side as an opponent. He said he had always admired the passion created by the fans and is looking forward to representing the club for the first time when the new season begins.
Sporting Director Johan Lange welcomed the midfielder, describing him as one of Europe’s finest players in his position. Lange praised Tonali’s technical quality, football intelligence and mentality, saying those qualities make him perfectly suited to succeed in a demanding environment.
He further noted that the Italian brings valuable experience from both domestic and European competitions, expressing confidence that Tottenham supporters would appreciate his energy, commitment and influence in midfield once he pulls on the club’s famous Lilywhite shirt.
De Zerbi also expressed his delight at finally working with a player he has admired for years. The Tottenham boss explained that he had closely followed Tonali’s development because the midfielder came through the youth ranks of Brescia, the coach’s hometown club.
The Italian manager acknowledged there was considerable interest in Tonali during the transfer window but said the midfielder made it clear that his priority was joining Tottenham. De Zerbi added that Spurs fans would quickly appreciate the qualities and character the midfielder will bring to the squad.
Journey from Brescia to North London
Born in Lodi, Italy, Tonali began his football education with Lombardia Uno and Piacenza before joining Brescia’s academy in 2012. He made his professional debut for the Serie B club in August 2017 and immediately established himself as one of the division’s brightest talents.
His outstanding performances earned him the Serie B Player of the Season award in successive campaigns as he inspired Brescia’s promotion to Serie A during the 2018/19 season. After making 89 appearances for the club, he secured a move to AC Milan on an initial season-long loan in September 2020.
At Milan, Tonali became an important member of the squad and gained valuable European experience as the Rossoneri reached the UEFA Europa League round of 16. He later continued his development before earning a move to Newcastle United, where his energetic displays and consistency established him among the Premier League’s leading midfielders.
Tottenham will now hope Tonali’s arrival strengthens their midfield as they target success in domestic and European competitions next season.
With the player already expressing his excitement about the move and the club’s leadership equally enthusiastic about his signing, Spurs supporters will be eager to see the Italian international make his competitive debut in Lilywhite colours.
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