Newcastle star Sandro Tonali is one name who will keep popping up in the transfer window with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur interested in his services
Sandro Tonali remains at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war after Newcastle United knocked back a bid from Tottenham Hotspur for the midfielder.
Manchester United and Arsenal had both been credited with interest in the Italian international, but Spurs are now considered among the frontrunners, having already submitted an offer. The North Londoners narrowly escaped a historic drop from the Premier League last season, yet they are one of the main contenders to land Tonali.
However, their opening offer of £80m falls well short of Newcastle's £100m asking price for the 26-year-old.
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Earlier this week, Newcastle legend Alan Shearer admitted that while he was taken aback by Tonali's apparent interest in joining Spurs, he believes the allure of London life and the prospect of working under Roberto De Zerbi could be the key factors influencing the midfielder's thinking.
Speaking to BetFair, Shearer said: "Tottenham just avoided relegation. I get the attraction of London but going to Spurs who have finished so low over the last two years would be a surprise career move for Tonali in my eyes," reports Chronicle Live.
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"But I'm not surprised if it's true that he's made an indication that he wants to leave Newcastle. Again, if he doesn't want to be there, you put the price you want and if someone wants to pay it.
"It looks as if it'll have to be three figures, then you say thank you very much, get the £100million plus and you move on.
"I know Spurs have a new manager and that may be a pull for him, London, obviously. But in terms of the football club, look where they have finished the last two years."
Prising Tonali away from Newcastle will prove no simple task for any suitor. The Magpies hold a commanding negotiating position, with Tonali tied to St. James' Park until 2030.
His contract also contains no buyout clause, meaning Newcastle retain complete control over accepting or declining any approaches they receive.
The protracted transfer saga surrounding Alexander Isak's switch to Liverpool also showed they will make life difficult for clubs attempting to recruit their star performers.