(Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket/Alfie Cosgrove/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Sandro Tonali only wanted to join Tottenham this summer, despite reports linking the Newcastle United midfielder with Arsenal and Manchester City.
The transfer expert has dismissed suggestions of a genuine three-way race, insisting the Italy international made Tottenham his preferred destination from the very beginning.
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Fabrizio Romano: Sandro Tonali only wanted Tottenham
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained that speculation surrounding Arsenal and Manchester City never reflected the reality of the situation.
According to the Italian journalist, Tonali immediately gave the green light to Tottenham after the club made its approach, with Roberto De Zerbi’s project proving decisive.
“I never came here telling you Man City, telling you Arsenal interest, telling you Tonali doesn’t want to go to Tottenham,” Romano stated firmly.
“Many people said Tonali preferred Arsenal, or Manchester City. But Tonali’s preference was clear from that day.”
According to Romano, Tonali’s unwavering stance was established immediately when the initial exclusive story broke on June 15.
The midfielder gave his immediate green light to Spurs, driven entirely by his deep tactical trust in manager Roberto De Zerbi and a belief in the club’s long-term project.
Personal terms were wrapped up that same afternoon, making the subsequent two weeks of club-to-club negotiations a formality before finalizing the £92.5 million up-front fee plus £7.5 million in add-ons.
Tonali agreed personal terms on 15 June with Tottenham, and the negotiation took two weeks — but now the agreement is done. It’s a record deal for Tottenham. Two days ago I told you about the record deal for [Mathys] Fernandez — that was £85 million. Now,…
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