Tottenham Hotspur have taken another major step in reshaping their squad under head coach Roberto De Zerbi, officially unveiling Mateus Fernandes while closing in on the blockbuster signing of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United.
If Tonali completes the move as expected, Tottenham’s spending on the two midfielders will rise to approximately £185 million before performance-related bonuses, highlighting the club’s determination to rebuild after two disappointing Premier League campaigns.
Tonali Travels to London Ahead of Medical
Italy international Sandro Tonali has travelled to London to complete the final stages of his transfer after Tottenham reached an agreement with Newcastle United worth an initial £92.5 million.
The package could rise to £100 million through add-ons linked primarily to Champions League qualification.
The midfielder spoke briefly to reporters before departing from Milan Linate Airport, expressing his excitement about the next stage of his career.
“I’m really happy. Everything is different, we’ve decided to change and we’re ready for this new adventure,” Tonali said.
The 25-year-old is expected to sign a six-year contract reportedly worth around £275,000 per week, making him one of Tottenham’s highest-paid players.
Record-Breaking Deal Set to Rewrite Tottenham’s Transfer History
Once finalized, Tonali’s arrival will become the most expensive signing in Tottenham’s history, overtaking the transfer completed earlier on Thursday for Mateus Fernandes.
The club views the Italian as a central figure in De Zerbi’s long-term project, with his technical quality, composure in possession and experience at the highest level expected to strengthen Spurs’ midfield significantly.
Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan in 2023 in a £60 million move and went on to make 110 appearances, scoring 10 goals during his time at St James’ Park.
Mateus Fernandes Officially Joins Spurs
Earlier in the day, Tottenham confirmed the signing of Portugal international Mateus Fernandes in a deal worth £85 million from West Ham United.
The 21-year-old midfielder described conversations with Roberto De Zerbi as one of the biggest reasons behind his decision to move across London.
Fernandes said he was eager to begin the next chapter of his career at one of England’s biggest clubs.
He explained that he and De Zerbi share a similar football philosophy built around energy, teamwork and a determination to win every match.
Fernandes also said he was looking forward to meeting supporters and giving everything for the club.
De Zerbi Explains Why Fernandes Fits His Vision
Roberto De Zerbi praised Fernandes’ combination of technical ability, tactical intelligence and work rate, insisting the midfielder perfectly matches the style of football he wants Tottenham to play.
The Spurs manager highlighted the player’s maturity despite his young age, noting his Premier League experience, composure under pressure and willingness to take responsibility during difficult moments.
De Zerbi believes Tottenham provides the ideal environment for Fernandes to continue developing while making an immediate impact in the squad.
Spurs Continue Extensive Summer Overhaul
The arrivals of Fernandes and the expected signing of Tonali represent the latest phase of an ambitious rebuilding project following consecutive 17th-place finishes in the Premier League.
Tottenham have already secured free-agent deals for Martin Dubravka, Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson, while defender Jan Paul van Hecke has joined from Brighton in a £52 million transfer.
The club is also continuing its search for further attacking reinforcements, with Manchester City’s Savinho remaining one of its primary targets for the wing.
Tonali Seeks Fresh Start Following Challenging Spell
Tonali’s time at Newcastle included both impressive performances and significant setbacks.
Only months after arriving from AC Milan, he received a 10-month suspension after being found guilty of breaching Italian Football Federation gambling regulations.
The ban ruled him out for the remainder of the domestic season as well as Italy’s European Championship campaign.
Despite that interruption, he returned to establish himself once again as a key midfielder for Newcastle before attracting Tottenham’s interest this summer.
Fernandes Leaves West Ham After One Season
West Ham confirmed Fernandes’ departure in a brief statement, thanking the Portugal international for his contribution and wishing him success in the future.
The midfielder made 38 appearances and scored four goals after joining the Hammers from Southampton in the summer of 2025.
Although Fernandes suffered consecutive Premier League relegations with Southampton and West Ham, his individual displays consistently earned praise and convinced Tottenham to invest heavily in his potential.
More Transfer Activity Expected Before Deadline
Tottenham’s business may not be finished.
The club remains eager to strengthen its attacking options before the transfer window closes, while departures are also expected.
Despite reported interest from Nottingham Forest and Napoli, no formal offers have yet been received for midfielder Lucas Bergvall.
However, Spurs have accepted a £50 million bid from Brighton for Croatian central defender Luka Vuskovic, with that move expected to proceed as the club continues reshaping its squad for the new season.
