Spurs close to seventh summer signing as huge spending spree continues – London Evening Standard

Tottenham’s summer rebuild has taken another dramatic step forward after Sandro Tonali revealed he needed just 10 minutes to decide to join Spurs from Newcastle, sealing a club-record £100m deal that underscores their bold transfer strategy.

Tonali’s swift decision caps Spurs’ aggressive recruitment

The 26-year-old midfielder’s rapid commitment to Tottenham followed a single conversation with manager Roberto De Zerbi, who had first reached out to him last season while still at Sassuolo. Tonali’s connection to Brescia—where De Zerbi also played—proved decisive, with the pair discussing the club’s financial struggles and shared ambitions. “We spoke about Brescia, about the difficult situation facing our club,” Tonali said, highlighting how personal ties shaped his choice over clubs with stronger recent records.

De Zerbi’s pitch extended beyond football, with Tonali admitting the manager’s vision convinced him within minutes. “When you are happy after a 10-minute chat, it’s everything,” he said. “I spoke with my wife—this was the first thing. We wanted to change our life, not just the city.” His decision came after Spurs secured Premier League survival, with De Zerbi contacting him the day after a 2-1 win over Everton that preserved their top-flight status.

Spurs’ seventh signing edges closer amid frenzied spending

Tonali’s arrival would mark Tottenham’s seventh summer signing, as they continue to reshape their squad following a turbulent 2023/24 campaign. The club’s outlay reflects a clear intent to challenge for European football, with De Zerbi prioritising midfield control and defensive solidity. Sources close to Tonali noted his captivation by Spurs’ project, despite interest from rivals, positioning him as the latest high-profile recruit in a restructure that has already seen significant investment.

This spending spree follows a pattern of high-stakes gambles, including an £85m deal for Mateus Fernandes—a signing now under scrutiny after an injury update raised doubts over his readiness. With Tonali’s medicals reportedly completed, Spurs are poised to finalise another marquee addition, though the club’s medical team will face scrutiny over Fernandes’ rehabilitation. Tottenham’s squad-building approach has drawn comparisons to their long-term vision, outlined in a recent projected 2026/27 lineup that anticipates further reinforcements.

De Zerbi’s project gains momentum after survival battle

Tonali’s arrival arrives at a pivotal moment for Spurs, who finished 17th last season but have since laid foundations for a stronger campaign. His integration could address midfield shortages highlighted in a pre-season friendly against Sydney FC, where Tottenham edged through on penalties after a stunning free-kick sealed a 1-1 draw. The win, secured via a dramatic late equaliser, offered a glimpse of De Zerbi’s tactical flexibility, though the match also exposed areas needing reinforcement.

With Tonali set to partner established names, Spurs’ hierarchy appears confident in closing the gap to Europe. The midfielder’s arrival follows a pattern of high-profile signings, though questions linger over Fernandes’ fitness—a concern amplified by his ongoing rehabilitation. For now, Tonali’s swift decision underscores Spurs’ ability to attract talent, even as their medical department faces fresh scrutiny.

Tottenham’s transfer activity signals more than just squad-building; it reflects a club willing to take calculated risks to accelerate progress. Whether Tonali’s arrival translates to on-field impact remains to be seen, but his rapid commitment to De Zerbi’s project marks a bold statement of intent. As Spurs chase European football, their summer has already redefined expectations—one signing at a time.