Tottenham Hotspur are wasting no time in the transfer market this summer as they look to put last season's woes well and truly behind them.
Spurs narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League as the March appointment of Roberto De Zerbi proved enough to guide the north London outfit towards safety.
Now, the Italian is looking to build the squad he inherited in his image. Already, Tottenham have spent £52million on Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton and Hove Albion, as well as picking up Martin Dubravka, Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers.
Spurs' intent to spend this window has been made clear from their pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, who is expected to cost a significant fee. Now, it looks as though the saga may be edging towards a conclusion.
Tottenham 'advancing' in push for Tonali
According to BBC Sport reporter Sami Mokbel, Tottenham are "advancing in their efforts" to sign Tonali from Newcastle and "are growing in confidence" that they can complete a deal for the Italian.
Reports in Italy have already suggested that Spurs have agreed personal terms with the midfielder worth £200,000 per week and now the final negotiation is regarding the financial package with Newcastle.
The Lilywhites saw a £75million bid rejected earlier this month and GIVEMESPORT understands that they are expected to return with an improved offer, but Newcastle are targeting a total package of £100million in order to sanction a deal. However, it is also understood that Tottenham are willing to increase their offer to £85million and believe that will be enough to sign the 26-year-old.
Tonali would be a statement signing
Tottenham are looking to make a statement signing this summer and swooping for Tonali would certainly merit that.
The Italian has become one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League during his three seasons at Newcastle, totalling 110 appearances for the Magpies.
Spurs need reinforcements in the middle of the park with Yves Bissouma leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract. Additionally, although not a like-for-like, Joao Palhinha has returned to Bayern Munich following his loan spell at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and isn't expected to return. Meanwhile, Xavi Simons is expected to be sidelined until the New Year with an ACL injury.
Europa League triumph in 2025 aside, the last two seasons have been miserable for Tottenham fans following back-to-back 17th place finishes in the Premier League. However, spending a significant transfer fee on one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and taking him from a club expected to be a rival in the race for Europe this season would be a real statement of intent.