Sandro Tonali has arrived at Milan Linate Airport and spoken to the media for the first time before flying to London ahead of his blockbuster £100m move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Newcastle United and Spurs reached an agreement on a deal for Tonali on Wednesday evening, with the fee expected to be in the region of £100 million, with prospective add-ons.
Subject to passing his medical, the Italian will become the Lilywhites' record signing, whilst he'll join the likes of Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke in Roberto De Zerbi's summer squad rebuild at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Spurs have also reached an agreement with West Ham United for Mateus Fernandes, with that fee expected to be worth around £85 million.
A busy summer is ensuing in North London, and there are seemingly plans to strengthen the attack after the deal for Tonali goes through.
Tonali Reveals Why he is Joining Tottenham
With Italy not at the World Cup, Tonali has spent the summer back in his homeland whilst negotiations take place over his future.
He's now set to return to the United Kingdom to undergo his medical and complete his move to Spurs. Spotted at Milan Linate Airport, the midfielder broke his silence on the imminent transfer.
"We decided for a change and we are ready for this new adventure," he told journalist Luca Bendoni.
"We parted with Newcastle on excellent terms. De Zerbi played a big role in my decision to choose Tottenham. National team? The goal is to return to the World Cup."
Tonali, who has been described as 'world-class', has spent the last three years on Tyneside, after completing a shock switch from his beloved AC Milan in the summer of 2023. Making over 100 appearances for the Magpies, he leaves as an EFL Cup winner and having generated the north-east club upwards of £100 million in a transfer fee.
With the player on his way to London, the deal can be expected to be made official in the coming days.
Tottenham to Turn Attention to the Attack
Thus far this summer, Spurs have significantly bolstered their backline and midfield. Now, the attention is expected to turn to improving the front end of De Zerbi's squad.
Junior Kroupi has been heavily linked with a switch to Tottenham, with the North Londoners eager to add a younger centre-forward who can compete with the ageing Dominic Solanke and Richarlison to their ranks. Like Tonali, the Bournemouth striker could cost in the region of £100 million.
Elsewhere, Spurs have also been linked with Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche. The 24-year-old would provide cover for the injured Xavi Simons, and perhaps take the mantle left by James Maddison in the future.
Out wide, Crysensio Summerville and Savinho are rumoured to be on Tottenham's radar.