Sandro Tonali breaks silence on £100m Spurs move as media spot Italian at Milan airport

Sandro Tonali is heading to London to undergo a medical ahead of a £100 million switch to Tottenham Hotspur.

On Wednesday evening, news broke that Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur had reached an agreement over a £92.5 million move for the 26-year-old, which could also see the Magpies net a further £7.5 million depending on Spurs' Champions League qualification.

Stories over a potential move to Spurs had gathered pace in recent weeks, and though other clubs were also sniffing about, it was the North London side who came up with the money first.

Newcastle were adamant that they wanted £100 million for the player they signed for £55 million three years ago, and though Spurs were reluctant to pay that much, the threat of being gazumped by Manchester City was enough to force their hand.

Was Mrs Tonali the architect of this move?

Sandro Tonali has been spotted at Milan airport on his way to London for his medical, and reporters were able to grab a quick word with the Italy international, where he spoke about being ready to make a change.

”I’m very happy to join Tottenham

“It’s simple. We've decided to make a change, so we're ready for this new adventure.

“For sure Roberto de Zerbi has been crucial for me to join Spurs. He played a big role. I can’t wait to work with him”.

"There hasn’t been an opportunity to return to Italy. I would be happy to work with Maldini again” 

The use of 'we' in his statement makes us feel that Mrs Tonali was a significant force behind the move. I mean, she did opt to have their child in London.

Italian media are still determined to get him home

Tonali's comments about Paulo Maldini were in response to rumours that the Italian legend is set for a role as technical director with the Italian national side. However, it was telling that he mentioned a return to Italy. Whether that was just a direct response to the question or whether he was actively hoping for an opportunity, we can't be sure.

Tonali had been linked with a return to Italy before the tyres had cooled on the plane that brought him to Newcastle.

Newcastle won't have to wait too long to face Tonali as a Spurs player, with the two teams set to meet in the Premier League on 29th August down at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.