Tottenham have made their move for Sandro Tonali, as David Ornstein reports that talks have opened with Newcastle United over a deal for the Italian international.
It comes as Spurs look to bolster their midfield ranks, having already moved fast to improve the defence with the signings of Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Andy Robertson.
The central options on the club's shortlist have included Mateus Fernandes, but it seems as though the Lilywhites are accelerating in a possible deal to sign Tonali.
The 26-year-old emerged as a possible option as Newcastle appear open to a possible sale at the right price quoted at £100 million, with the Tottenham transfer target being described as a "monster".
Tottenham Open Talks to Sign Sandro Tonali
Tottenham have made a clear signal of intent to sign Tonali this summer, with Ornstein reporting that club-to-club contact has now been made for the midfielder.
Newcastle hold a deal until 2029 for the Italian international, as well as a one-year extension on top of that, suggesting there is no immediate need to sell.
However, links have persisted over a potential exit for the midfield ace, as Spurs join a whole host of rivals to land his signature this summer.
Manchester City have been listed as a potential landing spot, while Manchester United, Arsenal, and AC Milan have also been linked with a transfer for the Premier League star.
While it's unclear exactly where Tonali could end up, the contact from Tottenham seemingly puts them ahead in the race, while reports have stated that there have already been positive talks between the Lilywhites and representatives of Tonali.
It would be quite the signing for Roberto De Zerbi, with another clear sign that the club is willing to invest heavily to improve the squad after last season's struggles.
Tottenham Backing De Zerbi Vision
A move for Tonali, which could reach up to £100 million, would be quite a deal for Tottenham to pull off, considering the competition for the Newcastle ace.
It would also show a clear sign that the club is willing to back De Zerbi's long-term vision for the club by adding some immediate quality into the squad.
It's a similar move to what Man United did last season, signing proven Premier League quality in the peak of their career who can raise the floor of the team's performances.
The midfield has been a clear problem area for Tottenham for several seasons now, and adding Tonali would go a long way to fix some of those issues.
Having already sealed three quick deals, a fourth for Tonali would show that Spurs mean business.