Sandro Tonali has revealed that securing the best possible outcome for Newcastle United was one of his top priorities before completing his £100 million transfer to Tottenham Hotspur, insisting he wanted his former club to benefit from the deal after three memorable seasons at St James’ Park.
The Italian midfielder spoke candidly about his departure, describing his time on Tyneside as one of the defining chapters of his career.
While acknowledging that football careers can change rapidly, Tonali said he felt a responsibility to ensure Newcastle received maximum value once he decided it was time to seek a new challenge.
According to the 26-year-old, he informed both his representatives and Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson that he wanted negotiations handled in a way that reflected his appreciation for the club and its supporters.
Deep Appreciation for Newcastle’s Football Culture
Despite moving to North London, Tonali spoke warmly about the bond he developed with Newcastle supporters and the unique football culture in the North East.
The midfielder joked that during his three years at Newcastle he had become accustomed not only to speaking English but also to understanding the distinctive Geordie identity embraced by the club’s passionate fanbase.
He described Newcastle as a place where football is deeply woven into everyday life, adding that the people he met there left a lasting impression on him.
His comments come during a turbulent summer for Newcastle, which has already seen significant squad changes alongside managerial upheaval.
Family Discussions Led to a Fresh Career Direction
Tonali explained that the decision to leave Newcastle was not made overnight but came after extensive conversations with his family about the next stage of his career.
Initially, the midfielder considered returning to Italy, but financial realities quickly ruled out that possibility.
While salary negotiations were not viewed as the main obstacle, he admitted that no Serie A club could realistically meet Newcastle’s transfer valuation.
That situation narrowed his options considerably, leaving England as the most practical destination if he wanted to continue competing at the highest level.
Tottenham’s Vision Won Him Over Within Minutes
Although multiple clubs expressed interest, Tonali said it took only a short conversation with Tottenham officials to convince him that the club offered the ideal environment for his future.
He revealed that discussions with Spurs lasted barely 10 to 15 minutes before he became convinced that North London was the right destination.
According to Tonali, the passion and professionalism demonstrated by Tottenham’s leadership immediately stood out.
He added that after speaking with his wife almost immediately following those conversations, he told his family he believed joining Spurs could become one of the best decisions of his career.
Reports had linked Manchester City with the Italian international, but Tonali indicated that Tottenham’s long-term sporting project ultimately proved more persuasive.
Roberto De Zerbi Played a Decisive Role
A major influence behind Tonali’s decision was new Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi, whose vision for the club aligned closely with the midfielder’s ambitions.
Tonali said De Zerbi presented a demanding but exciting project built around hard work, tactical discipline and possession-based football.
Those conversations convinced him that Tottenham possessed both the quality and ambition to compete for major success.
The midfielder also highlighted his long-standing connection with De Zerbi through their shared ties to Brescia, describing it as a “mini connection” that made communication easier from the outset.
Having already spent two weeks working under the Italian coach, Tonali said the intensity and passion De Zerbi promised during negotiations have already become evident on the training ground.
Embracing the Pressure of a £100 Million Price Tag
Becoming one of the Premier League’s most expensive signings has not altered Tonali’s approach heading into the new season.
The Italy international acknowledged that modern transfer fees naturally create expectations but insisted he intends to focus solely on performing for the team rather than thinking about the size of the investment.
Whether valued at £1 million or £100 million, Tonali believes the only responsibility that matters is delivering committed performances every time he steps onto the pitch.
With Tottenham also strengthening their midfield through the addition of Mateus Fernandes, the club enters the new campaign expecting its revamped squad to compete at the highest level under De Zerbi’s leadership, with Tonali positioned as one of the centrepieces of that ambitious project.
