Football365

Mateus Fernandes has been given the ‘green light’ by West Ham to undergo a medical at Tottenham, according to reports, but Spurs are looking to eclipse that deal with their latest offer for Sandro Tonali.

Spurs avoided relegation on the final day of the Premier League season with a 1-0 win over Everton, and the Tottenham hierarchy are determined not to face the same situation next term.

Tottenham have already completed four signings in the summer transfer window with Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Martin Dubravka all arriving on free transfers from Liverpool, Bournemouth and Burnley respectively, while Jan Paul van Hecke has joined in a deal worth £52m from Brighton.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano and other widespread reports revealed on Tuesday that Tottenham had beaten Manchester United to the signing of West Ham midfielder Fernandes.

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “It’s done—Matheus Fernandes will play for Tottenham Hotspur and not for Manchester United. Man United have been in conversation for a long time with Fernandes until Tuesday morning. I can guarantee to you that before lunchtime, Manchester United were still in contact with the agent of the player, still in contact with West Ham.

“But what made the difference is the transfer fee, because Manchester United were not matching the £85m valuation in full. They were never going to pay £85 million in full, but they were prepared to reach £85 million including add-ons.

READ: Transfer rumour ranking: Arsenal accept bid for starter as Man Utd, Gunners fight over Scott

“Tottenham arrived with an £85 million guaranteed fee—a fixed fee, no add-ons, no future stories. West Ham have the guarantee they wanted. £85 million for a player strongly wanted by Roberto De Zerbi.

“De Zerbi was pushing like crazy behind the scenes to get Fernandes. It was not easy for Tottenham to get the green light from the player with Man United involved to play in Champions League football. Tottenham were in trouble till the final day of the Premier League season, so it’s a completely different situation.

“But now we can say that Tottenham have agreed all terms with Matheus Fernandes and also with West Ham. So, £85 million—the most expensive deal in history for Tottenham.

“Tottenham remain in conversations with Newcastle for Sandro Tonali. So we have to see also the outcome of that conversation between Tottenham and Newcastle, but for sure they are working very hard to rebuild the midfield.”

Fernandes ‘medical’ at Tottenham and Tonali offer

And now Romano has revealed that West Ham have provided the ‘green light’ that will see Fernandes undergo a medical at Tottenham after Spurs had a £85m bid accepted.

READ: Roberto De Zerbi’s dream Tottenham XI for 26-27: Rebuild with SEVEN new signings…

‘Mateus Fernandes has permission to undergo medical tests as new Tottenham player. Green light from West Ham as they receive £85m fixed fee, a club record signing for Tottenham.’

Tottenham could break their transfer record again this week with Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla indicating that Spurs have made another ‘offer’ of over €100m (£86m).

Pedulla wrote on X: ‘#Tonali: the announced offer from #Tottenham to #Newcastle is ready to close (over 100 million euros) #Tonali is getting closer to #Tottenham from #Newcastle.’

Sport Mediaset revealed earlier this week that Tottenham were ‘confident’ of finalising a deal for Tonali and ‘hope to close the deal this week’.

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is reportedly ‘getting closer’ to completing a move to Tottenham despite Man City wanting to hijack the deal.

Spurs have already made big strides in the transfer market with the Tottenham hierarchy getting four deals over the line ahead of the start of the new season.

Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Martin Dubravka have all moved to Tottenham on free transfers from Liverpool, Bournemouth and Burnley respectively, while Jan Paul van Hecke has arrived from Brighton in a deal worth £52m.

And Fabrizio Romano revealed on Tuesday that Tottenham are close to wrapping up their fifth signing of the summer with Spurs set to beat Manchester United to the signing of West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes.

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “It’s done—Matheus Fernandes will play for Tottenham Hotspur and not for Manchester United.

“Man United have been in conversation for a long time with Fernandes until Tuesday morning. I can guarantee to you that before lunchtime, Manchester United were still in contact with the agent of the player, still in contact with West Ham.

READ: Bergvall a ‘fancy Dan’ who’ll never be ‘top class’ and Tottenham won’t miss him – ex-Spurs man

“But what made the difference is the transfer fee, because Manchester United were not matching the £85m valuation in full. They were never going to pay £85 million in full, but they were prepared to reach £85 million including add-ons.

“Tottenham arrived with an £85 million guaranteed fee—a fixed fee, no add-ons, no future stories. West Ham have the guarantee they wanted. £85 million for a player strongly wanted by Roberto De Zerbi.

“De Zerbi was pushing like crazy behind the scenes to get Fernandes. It was not easy for Tottenham to get the green light from the player with Man United involved to play in Champions League football. Tottenham were in trouble till the final day of the Premier League season, so it’s a completely different situation.

“But now we can say that Tottenham have agreed all terms with Matheus Fernandes and also with West Ham. So, £85 million—the most expensive deal in history for Tottenham.

READ: Romano reveals Tottenham ‘next move’ after Fernandes with £85m star set to undergo medical

“Tottenham remain in conversations with Newcastle for Sandro Tonali. So we have to see also the outcome of that conversation between Tottenham and Newcastle, but for sure they are working very hard to rebuild the midfield.”

Tottenham set to avoid Man City hijack for Tonali

Their deal for Tonali had seemingly come into doubt on Tuesday with reports from Spanish newspaper Marca claiming that Manchester City are ‘preparing’ to hijack Tottenham’s transfer.

The report added that Man City are ‘prepared to push for over €110 million, which would be another blockbuster transfer in the Premier League this season.’

However, reliable Italian journalist Nicolo Schira has revealed that Tottenham are ‘getting closer’ and not further away from signing Tonali from Newcastle.

Schira wrote on X: ‘Excl. – Sandro #Tonali is getting closer to #Tottenham from #Newcastle for a transfer fee over €100M. The midfielder has a total agreement with #THFC for a contract until 2032 (€12M/year) and has given his availability to De Zerbi, who had a key-role to convince him despite other two bids from top english clubs. #transfers.’

Fabrizio Romano has named Tottenham Hotspur’s ‘next’ transfer target after Matheus Fernandes, who is ‘set for a medical’.

Spurs are really not messing around in this summer’s transfer window, with the north London side so far doing the most business of the Big Six clubs.

After avoiding relegation from the Premier League on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign, Roberto De Zerbi‘s side have made four signings. They have bought Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton, while they have landed Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Martin Dubravka on free transfers.

Tottenham have also been targeting Man City star Savinho, but they have recently been focused on overhauling their midfield.

They have been linked with several options, but they have made a serious play for Fernandes and have now beaten Manchester United to sign him in a deal worth £85m.

Several reputable reporters stated on Monday that Spurs have reached an agreement with West Ham, and Sky Sports are now reporting that he is ‘set for a medical’ to complete this move.

READ: Tottenham agree to pay Newcastle more than £100m for Sandro Tonali after personal terms sealed

And Fabrizio Romano has now stated that Tottenham will turn their focus back to landing Newcastle star Sandro Tonali.

“Tottenham arrived with an £85 million guaranteed fixed fee, no add-ons, no future-sell-on clauses. West Ham got the guarantee they wanted. I told you the price three or four weeks ago: £85 million to sign Matheus Fernandes,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.

“And now the player has been signed for £85 million. I told you in a video two days ago that the payment terms would be important — they didn’t want a structure with too many add-ons or complicated routes to the price.

“Now the price has been reached in full: £85 million, for a player strongly wanted by Roberto De Zerbi.

“We’ll keep following the next moves, because Tottenham remain in conversations with Newcastle over Sandro Tonali. We’ll have to see how that develops too. But for sure they’re working hard to rebuild the midfield.”

Tottenham “optimistic” over Sandro Tonali

Journalist Ben Jacobs, meanwhile, has stated that Spurs are “optimistic” over signing Tonali and their “idea” is to sign both players.

“Spurs view Sandro Tonali as a separate transfer to Mateus Fernandes. Idea is to do both,” Jacobs said on X.

“Manchester City the other club tracking Tonali. #MCFC also want a second midfielder after Elliot Anderson.”

Speaking on Monday, Jacobs said: “Spurs continue in talks to sign Sandro Tonali and are optimistic the Italian midfielder wants to join.

“Roberto De Zerbi is understood to a key factor in his decision-making process. Manchester City and Arsenal also hold an interest.

“Newcastle United have already rejected one formal offer worth around £80m, but club-to-club negotiations are ongoing.

“Separate from Mateus Fernandes where Spurs and Manchester United are both in talks with West Ham.”

According to reports, Manchester United have chosen their next midfield signing after it emerged that Matheus Fernandes is joining Tottenham Hotspur.

The Red Devils are prioritising a midfield overhaul in this summer’s transfer window, though this is not entirely going to plan.

Michael Carrick’s side have struck a deal to sign Ederson Silva from Atalanta for around £38m, but their plans have been complicated by Manuel Ugarte suffering a serious knee injury.

Man Utd have also missed out on Manchester City-bound Elliot Anderson, while it has now emerged that they will not sign Fernandes from West Ham.

In recent weeks, it had become clear that Fernandes was United’s leading target after Ederson, though a move was proving difficult due to West Ham’s £85m valuation and competition from Tottenham Hotspur.

READ: Transfer rumour ranking: Fernandes agreement struck as Chelsea in talks for obscure defender

Unlike Spurs, Man Utd have shown an unwillingness to pay over the odds to sign Fernandes and other targets, and this has led to them missing out on the 21-year-old midfielder.

On Tuesday evening, respected reporter David Ornstein revealed that Tottenham had won the race to sign Fernandes after offering £85m for the midfielder.

Ornstein said on X: ‘EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham Hotspur win race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. Spurs submitted highest proposal (believed to be ~£85m guaranteed) & 21yo #WHUFC midfielder opted to join #THFC. Numbers beyond where #MUFC willing to go.’

Now, our colleagues at TEAMtalk have broken down why Fernandes has chosen to join Tottenham over Man Utd.

Unsurprisingly, the money on the table is one factor, but it is not the most prominent reason for this deal going through.

Instead, the report claims Fernandes has been convinced by Roberto De Zerbi’s project at Tottenham, while he is also keen to remain in London.

The report explains: ‘Sources with direct knowledge of the negotiations have confirmed to TEAMtalk that Fernandes ultimately chose Tottenham because of his belief in Roberto De Zerbi’s vision for the club.

‘While Spurs’ financial package is understood to be superior to that offered by Man Utd, Fernandes’ camp have insisted the move was “not simply a case of joining the highest bidder.” Instead, the midfielder was won over by De Zerbi’s plans, the direction of the project in north London and the opportunity to remain in the capital.’

Manchester United’s next midfield target named

Now, journalist Ben Jacobs claims Man Utd have turned to Bournemouth standout Alex Scott as an alternative, while there are also other targets on their radar.

‘Manchester United set to explore Alex Scott after missing out on Mateus Fernandes,’ Jacobs said on X.

READ NEXT: Romano reveals whether Rashford wants to play under Carrick after ‘direct contact’ from Man Utd

‘Spurs to pay £85m for Fernandes, a figure #MUFC were not prepared to meet.

‘Fernandes never communicated to either club a sole preference, leaving it to both to negotiate with West Ham.

‘Bournemouth want Scott to sign a new deal and are prepared to offer him a release clause within in. They value Scott around £80m.

‘Arsenal, Manchester City, Spurs and Chelsea other clubs to watch. Arsenal already directly informed on Bournemouth’s stance.

‘#MUFC also have Aurelien Tchouaméni and Carlos Baleba on their list, and Spurs and Manchester City target Sandro Tonali is appreciated. Cost of deal would need to drop for #MUFC to proceed. Sander Berge another name discussed.’

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly beaten Manchester United in the race to sign West Ham standout Matheus Fernandes in a ‘record’ deal.

In recent weeks, it has become clear that Spurs and Man Utd are the main competitors in the race to sign Fernandes following his breakout season for West Ham.

Man Utd initially seemed to be leading the race to land Fernandes, but it has emerged in recent weeks that Tottenham are making a serious play to secure his services.

And while the Red Devils have been measured in their approach and have refused to overpay for Fernandes, Tottenham have already shown a willingness to pay silly money for Jan Paul van Hecke and they are now doing the same with the West Ham star.

On Tuesday evening, respected reporter David Ornstein took to X to reveal that Spurs have now officially beaten Man Utd to sign Fernandes.

READ: Tottenham agree to pay Newcastle more than £100m for Sandro Tonali after personal terms sealed

Tottenham to sign Matheus Fernandes in ‘record’ deal

Ornstein said on X: ‘EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham Hotspur win race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. Spurs submitted highest proposal (believed to be ~£85m guaranteed) & 21yo #WHUFC midfielder opted to join #THFC. Numbers beyond where #MUFC willing to go.’

Shortly after, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Spurs have an ‘agreement’ with West Ham over Fernandes.

Romano said on X: ‘BREAKING: Tottenham agree club record deal for Mateus Fernandes, HERE WE GO!

‘Agreement in place at £85m fixed fee as West Ham accept the price they’ve always asked, 100% guaranteed — as @David_Ornstein reports.

‘Man United will now focus on different targets in midfield.’

Journalist Ben Jacobs, meanwhile, has revealed Man Utd’s hope with the Fernandes deal before Tottenham accelerated to finalise a deal.

Jacobs explained on X: ‘BREAKING: West Ham accept an offer from Spurs in the region of £85m, as @David_Ornstein called.

‘Spurs’ interest in Fernandes exclusively revealed on @talkSPORT.

‘Manchester United pushed hard to sign Fernandes but put off by West Ham’s valuation.

‘Fernandes also never made his club preference clear. #MUFC had hoped he would commit leaving them in a stronger position to negotiate.’

This is a blow for Man Utd, who could not turn to a cheaper alternative for their next midfield signing after Ederson Silva. Alex Scott, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton have all been mooted as options.

For Tottenham, though, this is another huge statement of intent. They have already signed Van Hecke, Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Martin Dubravka, while they are targeting Sandro Tonali and Savinho.

Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a blow in their quest to bring Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with a report claiming that Manchester City are now planning to make a huge bid for the Newcastle United star.

Man City and Tottenham have been strongly linked with Tonali, whose days at Newcastle are numbered.

Reliable transfer news outlet TEAMtalk has reported that Tottenham are willing to meet Newcastle’s demands for Tonali.

Newcastle have long demanded £100million for the Italy international and are now asking for £116m.

That is the fee that Manchester City are paying Nottingham Forest for Elliot Anderson.

TEAMtalk has reported that Tottenham are even willing to match that figure for Tonali, who is keen on a move to the north London club.

READ: Man Utd or Spurs? Journalist reveals which club will pay more for £85m star as INEOS triple signing on

Tonali wants to work under fellow Italian Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham and has already agreed personal terms with the Premier League club.

Man City prepare bid for Sandro Tonali

However, Marca has reported that Man City are planning to make a bid of their own for Tonali

The Spanish publication has stated in its headline: ‘City are preparing another bombshell signing worth over 100 million euros’.

The report itself has stated that Man City are ‘prepared to push for over €110 million, which would be another blockbuster transfer in the Premier League this season’.

A potential bid of €110m (£95m) for Tonali would be a record for an Italian player.

Mateo Retegui is the current most expensive Italian player in history.

Al Qadsiah paid Atalanta €68m (£59m) in the summer of 2025 to sign the 27-year-old Italy international striker.

No other media outlet is reporting that Man City are ready to bid for Tonali, so, for now, one needs to be cautious.

However, given that Man City are entering a new era under manager Enzo Maresca and are looking for midfield players, one should not be surprised if the Cityzens do splash the cash for Tonali.

Tonali is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and is also an Italy international.

Paul Scholes wants Man Utd to sign Sandro Tonali

Man City would be a better team with Tonali in it, and so would Manchester United, according to Red Devils legend Paul Scholes.

Metro quotes Scholes as saying about Man Utd and Tonali: “The centre of the pitch is a big problem for me.

“You don’t feel like something is happening either, there’s nothing, there are no rumours,.

“I’ve said it, I said it on the podcast [The Good, The Bad & The Football] six months ago, I love Tonali from Newcastle.

“It looks like a few clubs are in for him including Tottenham.

‘It doesn’t sound like we are in for him but I think that would be… he knows the Premier League, he’s been with Newcastle for two or three years, obviously he had a year where he couldn’t play, but I think he’s a top-class midfield player.

“Whether Manchester United want to do that [Tonali] deal for £90-100m, whatever it is, I don’t know.

“But I think they’re going to have to do some business if they want to be successful next year.”

Tottenham have agreed personal terms with Sandro Tonali and Spurs have said yes to paying Newcastle more than £100m in a deal that will obliterate their transfer record.

As it stands, Tottenham’s record signing remains Dominic Solanke at £65m (add-ons included). All being well, that mark will be blown out of the water by Tonali’s arrival.

Spurs are backing new boss Roberto De Zerbi in a big way, and he is the key to the incredible coup that is now within reach.

Tonali wants to play for his fellow Italian and our colleagues over on TEAMtalk have brought news of an agreement on personal terms now being sealed.

Their insider, Fraser Fletcher, shed further light on that development, revealing Tonali is in line to earn close to £300,000 a week when bonuses are factored in.

The Athletic were keen on Monday morning to stress Spurs cannot rest easy, primarily due to the presence of Manchester City in this equation.

Despite landing Elliot Anderson for a club-record £116m, Man City want to make it a double coup in central areas by adding the Newcastle talisman too.

Perhaps the easiest way for City to muscle Spurs off this deal would be the latter’s reluctance to pay what Newcastle are demanding.

Spurs ready to pay in excess of £100m for Sandro Tonali

The Magpies had valued Tonali at roughly £100m, but in light of City paying £116m for Anderson, Fletcher revealed Newcastle now want in excess of £100m.

Yet in fantastic news for Tottenham fans, Fletcher then went on to state Spurs are ‘willing to meet’ Newcastle’s elevated asking price.

Accordingly, and with personal terms settled, the next step is for Spurs to strike a club-to-club agreement with Newcastle.

If that is achieved, Tonali will undergo a medical and barring any late hiccups, he’ll become Tottenham’s most expensive ever signing and their first £100m-plus player.

TRANSFER RUMOUR RANKING: PSG posturing over Liverpool target, Arsenal snubbed

Tottenham have Roberto De Zerbi to thank

As mentioned, the De Zerbi connection is why Tottenham have been able to position themselves as favourites for a player they ordinarily wouldn’t stand much chance of attracting.

Fletcher went on to detail the masterful job De Zerbi has done in this instance, declaring: ‘A key factor in the potential move is Spurs head coach De Zerbi.

‘The Italian tactician has already held positive personal discussions with Tonali, who is said to be highly enthusiastic about the prospect of playing under his compatriot and playing under his progressive style of football.

‘The two men have roots close to Brescia and have struck up an understanding during transfer talks, with sources revealing the Spurs’ boss’ vision for the club has won sway with the 26-year-old.

‘De Zerbi’s influence has already been huge inside Spurs, and he is a big pull for players due to his style of play and reputation.

‘Tonali is also understood to be keen on relocating to London, seeing the move as an exciting opportunity to experience one of football’s most vibrant cities after his time in the North-East. His known desire to depart St James’ Park has added momentum to the negotiations.

‘Talks between the two clubs remain ongoing, with the deal expected to accelerate over the coming days.’

Tottenham’s move for Tonali remains totally separate to their attempts to beat Manchester United to the signature of Mateus Fernandes.

For Spurs, it is a case of the club wanting both players despite the giant costs involved, not one or the other.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester United are still keen on a deal for Mateus Fernandes and remain in talks to bring the West Ham United midfielder to Old Trafford, despite the threat from Tottenham Hotspur.

Man Utd and Tottenham are the two clubs most actively looking to sign Fernandes, who got relegated from the Premier League with West Ham at the end of last season.

West Ham, though, are not going to sell the Portugal international midfielder on the cheap.

Transfer guru Romano has long reported that West Ham want £85million for Fernandes.

There have been contradictory reports in recent times regarding Man Utd, Tottenham and Fernandes.

While some reports have claimed that Tottenham have a deal in place with Fernandes, others have noted that Man Utd remain in talks with the West Ham star.

READ: Romano reveals whether Rashford wants to play under Carrick after ‘direct contact’ from Man Utd

Last week, Romano reported that Fernandes has not made a final call between Tottenham and Man Utd.

Romano said on his YouTube channel about Fernandes: “Guys, I still stand by my own call on this deal.

“And so, for Mateus Fernandes, Manchester United and Tottenham are still fighting.

“Tottenham have been there for days, trying to enter, pushing with the player, pushing with his agent, but Manchester United remain in contact with West Ham.

“Manchester United are still working on the Mateus Fernandes deal.

“So, West Have been clear with the agent of the player.

“The player will be sold to the best offer, to the club offering the most money.

“So, who offers one penny more is getting the player from West Ham.

“And Mateus Fernandes has opened doors to both Tottenham and Man Utd.

“So, now depends on West Ham.

“If West Ham accept Utd bid, he goes to Utd.

“If Tottenham win the race, he goes to Spurs.

“So, the story is open, and from what I am told, Man Utd are yet to give up on Mateus Fernandes.

“So, for sure, a story to follow for one of the most wanted midfielders around, because, for Mateus Fernandes, there are many clubs keen, really many clubs keen, many others already called.

“He was mentioned by Real Madrid in the conversation with Jose Mourinho three weeks ago.

“Then there has been a call from Liverpool at the end of May to ask about the situation.

“So, many clubs interested in Mateus Fernandes, but now Man Utd and Tottenham pushing like crazy to get the deal done.

“And let’s see who’s going to win this race.”

Romano has now reported that Man Utd are still trying to get a deal done for Fernandes and have not given up on signing him.

Man Utd ‘not giving up on’ on Mateus Fernandes

The Italian journalist said on his YouTube channel on Tuesday morning: “Man Utd don’t stop contacts for Mateus Fernandes.

“The battle I have been telling you about Mateus Fernandes between Manchester United and Tottenham is still underway.

“Man Utd and Tottenham are every day in contact with West Ham, and every day in contact with the agent of the player, Jorge Mendes.

“So, I told you that the player is open to joining both clubs, Tottenham or Man Utd.

“This depends on the clubs, on who can go to West Ham and agree a fee.

“So, that’s the point – the transfer fee, around £85million plus, and also important to mention payment terms.

“So, details of the Mateus Fernandes story depends on the club.

“I keep telling you West Ham will sell to the club ready to spend the best money.

“Then important to say even after the injury of Manuel Ugarte, Manchester United remain in active conversations for Mateus Fernandes.

“They are not giving up on him and Tottenham also in conversations.

“So, ready to keep you update as soon as the story will take a clear direction, as soon as possible.”

Tottenham are ‘edging closer’ to the record-breaking arrival of Sandro Tonali, with multiple trusted reporters also providing updates on the club’s pursuit of Mateus Fernandes.

With Roberto De Zerbi at the helm, Tottenham are going big in the market this summer. Bags of experience has been added with the triple addition of Martin Dubravka, Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi.

At centre-back, Spurs paid £52m to sign Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton, while there’s genuine hope of signing BOTH Cody Gakpo and Savinho from Liverpool and Manchester City respectively.

However, the biggest deals will come in midfield, with Tottenham aiming to sign Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, either of which will set a new transfer record in north London depending on who arrives first. Dominic Solanke (£65m) remains Tottenham’s record buy for the time being.

Man City are providing stiff competition for Tonali’s signature, even despite spending an eye-watering £116m on Elliot Anderson.

That’s according to Chris Waugh of The Athletic, who specialises in covering Newcastle, and who claimed Tonali’s exit is now ‘edging closer’. And per the report, his direction of travel is Spurs, not City.

Tottenham to sign Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes?

After seeing a formal offer worth somewhere in the £75m-£80m range turned down, the report confirmed talks have ‘continued’ and Newcastle now ‘anticipate’ the Italian’s departure.

The report added: ‘De Zerbi is keen to add starting-level talent to improve his midfield options this summer, and Tonali and Fernandes remain among his and the club’s top targets.

‘Tottenham face serious competition from Manchester City for Tonali. The 26-year-old midfielder is from the Italian town of Lodi, around 70 kilometres away from Brescia, De Zerbi’s hometown, and came through the Brescia academy.

‘It is understood that a personal connection between the head coach and the player has been integral in strengthening Tottenham’s attempts to lure him away from Newcastle, though the promise of challenging for titles and playing in the Champions League at City is a significant pull. Newcastle may also be more reluctant to sell to a club that they finished five places above last season.’

Providing an update of his own on X, trusted reporter, Ben Jacobs, stated: ‘Spurs continue in talks to sign Sandro Tonali and are optimistic the Italian midfielder wants to join.

‘Roberto De Zerbi is understood to a key factor in his decision-making process. Manchester City and Arsenal also hold an interest.

‘Newcastle United have already rejected one formal offer worth around £80m, but club-to-club negotiations are ongoing.

‘Separate from Mateus Fernandes where Spurs and Manchester United are both in talks with West Ham.’

As mentioned, it is not a case of one or the other from Tonali and Fernandes for Spurs – the club want both.

Tonali is valued by the Magpies at £100m, while West Ham will sell £85m-rated Fernandes to which ever club puts the most money on the table.

As it stands, the two teams pushing hardest for Fernandes’ signature are Tottenham and Man Utd.

Former Tottenham scout Bryan King has suggested Lucas Bergvall is a “fancy Dan” who will never become “a top-class midfielder” and is actually better suited to a historically weaker team.

Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League last season, following a finish of the same position the year prior. They have made strides in improving their squad but could be hindered by some exits.

Reports emerged last week that Bergvall had asked to leave Tottenham for a new challenge, feeling there’s no clear route into Roberto De Zerbi’s plans, and he wants to get consistent minutes as a No.8.

It’s suggested the Swede has a £45million price tag on his head, and Nottingham Forest are one of the leaders in the pursuit.

Former Tottenham scout King feels Bergvall is better suited to the Midlands club, as he suggested he’s not going to become a great player.

King told Football Insider: “He’d probably be more suited for Nottingham Forest than he is for Tottenham. Don’t fancy him.

“I honestly don’t think he’s strong enough to become a top-class midfield player. Fancy Dan, likes to do a little bit on the ball, but for me, he isn’t going to win you a title.

“Decent young player. Potential. But he isn’t going to be top, top flight. He’s not a Stefan Schwarz from the old Swedish days.

“I mean, you know, talking about the old Swedish players. They were proper players. They were proper midfield players.”

READ: Tottenham ‘willing to let go’ of James Maddison as Aston Villa move no ‘surprise’ to former scout

Bergvall was Tottenham’s best player a year ago

King’s suggestion is that Bergvall is not a proper midfield player, and doesn’t have the same effect as he’d like to see.

But the Swedish midfielder was named Tottenham’s Player of the Season in 2024/25, his first as a Spurs player, while he was still a teenager.

If he had that sort of impact on a below-par side in not only his first season at the club, but his first season outside of Sweden, where he’d been playing for Djurgarden, then his next club, after a couple of years worth of Premier League experience, could be getting a very good midfielder.

It seems that Roberto De Zerbi doesn’t rate him, giving him just one start in the seven Spurs games he oversaw at the back end of last season, and the club will hope that doesn’t come back to bite them.

Forest, Aston Villa and Chelsea are among the Premier League clubs interested in Bergvall, and it will look an awful decision if Bergvall is sold to a fellow English club and becomes a star there.