Shields Gazette

Premier League rival pip Newcastle United to second £50m star

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Not just Johan Manzambi - Premier League rival set to pip Newcastle United to second £50m star - Shields Gazette
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Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United have expressed interest in Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

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Nottingham Forest are reportedly leading the race to sign Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

Newcastle United expressed interest last week and made a verbal offer worth around £46million. This was dismissed - with Spurs holding out for £50million despite paying £8million two years ago.

It is understood that Bergvall wants to leave to pursue regular first-team football. He started just 11 Premier League games last season - failing to complete a full 90 minutes despite Spurs’ struggles.

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Nottingham Forest nudge ahead

Forest are thought to be ahead of Newcastle, with the player recognising his increased game-time opportunities at the City Ground. The Tricky Trees have funds available after selling former Toon midfielder £116million to Manchester City.

Newcastle’s interest in Bergvall predates his time at Tottenham. However, it is unclear whether they will return with a concrete bid due to his price tag.

As reported by The Gazette, the Magpies are closing in on Monaco star Aladji Bamba. While not the same profile as Bergvall, he arrives alongside Sean Steur, negating the need to bolster the engine room.

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Newcastle United’s fresh priority

Elsewhere, the Magpies have also prioritised a full-back who can operate on both sides. After losing Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth and Matt Targett, Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento remain the only first-team options.

Full-back is an area Newcastle have identified since the winter window. They have targets - but the transfer cards are being kept close to their chest at St James’ Park.

The internal feeling is that, when a target is leaked publicly and the saga drags on, the chances of finalising the deal diminish. Newcastle can sense when they are being played - Victor Munoz and Johan Manzambi were examples of that.

Patience is being urged as Toon officials work tirelessly to give Eddie Howe the tools for a successful season. Fans can watch the Magpies for the first time in pre-season when they face Gateshead this weekend.

Frontrunners named in race for Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest transfer target

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Frontrunners named in race for Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest transfer target - Shields Gazette
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The latest transfer talk from Newcastle United as the Magpies are linked with a move for a Tottenham Hotspur midfielder.

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Newcastle United’s efforts to replace Sandro Tonali have reportedly been delivered a blow after a Premier League rivals was named as the front-runner for one Magpies transfer target.

It has been a frustrating summer for the Magpies and they have a lot of work to do as they look to boost Eddie Howe’s squad in a bid to move on from a desperately disappointing season. As it stands, deals for Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, Ajax midfielder Sean Steur and Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure have been completed - but another goalkeeper, a full-back, a winger and at least one more midfielder are believed to be on the list of priorities for the final seven weeks of the transfer window.

The departure of Tonali to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur swelled the Magpies coffers by around £92.5m and that figure could reach £100m if all add-ons within the initial agreement are triggered. However, the sale of the Italy international, and questions over the future of captain Bruno Guimaraes, mean there is a need to strengthen the midfield ranks. Newcastle have reportedly been offered a chance to sign Spurs star Lucas Bergvall in recent weeks - but former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness has claimed the appointment of Oliver Glasner means the Sweden international is more likely to move to Nottingham Forest over the coming weeks.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, Wyness said: "I actually see Forest coming out on top on this one. I think the manager at Forest will be the factor that will convince him to go there. Look, both clubs have got war chests in terms of the sales that they've done. Both clubs need to improve in those positions. But I've just got a feeling that Forest are going to be the ones that come out on top. I don't think there'll be any difference between the two of them. It'll be up to the player to decide. And from what I'm hearing, I think he's going to choose Forest."

Not just Lucas Bergvall - Newcastle United plot second Spurs raid in Sandro Tonali revenge mission

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Not just Lucas Bergvall - Newcastle United plot second Spurs raid in Sandro Tonali revenge mission - Shields Gazette
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It is no secret that Newcastle United are in the market for a full-back after losing Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth and Matt Targett.

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Newcastle United are reportedly keen on England surprise package Djed Spence this summer.

Eyebrows were raised when Thomas Tuchel named the Tottenham Hotspur full-back in his 26-man squad for the World Cup. However, Spence stepped up in both full-back positions and was one of England’s better performers at the tournament.

He only made his international debut last September - one month after penning a contract extension at Spurs. Despite Spence’s new-found status as a national cult hero, Tottenham are thought to be open to offers.

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Newcastle United double swoop?

Roberto De Zerbi has spent £250million on new arrivals as he aims to transform a side that finished 17th in consecutive Premier League seasons. Sandro Tonali - at £100million - has been the standout summer signing.

However, there is an acceptance that players must also be sold to offset the heavy investment. Newcastle and Nottingham Forest are both interested in Swedish youngster Lucas Bergvall.

An opening offer worth £46million was turned down last week, with the player keen to pursue first-team football elsewhere. TeamTalk also claim the Magpies are considering an approach for Spence.

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Newcastle United stance and Inter Milan link

It is understood that Newcastle remain in the market for a full-back after losing Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth and Matt Targett. Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have little competition for a first-team spot next season.

Spurs could demand a high fee for Spence given his England heroics and recent contract extension. Whether the Magpies stump up a considerable sum for someone who will challenge for a starting berth remains to be seen.

Inter Milan have also been linked with a possible swoop after losing Denzel Dumfries to Real Madrid. Italian outlets report that Spence would be keen on a move to the San Siro.

Bid rejected - Newcastle offer half of £100m Sandro Tonali money but face fresh transfer snub

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Bid rejected - Newcastle offer half of £100m Sandro Tonali money but face fresh snub - Shields Gazette
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Tottenham Hotspur have rejected a bid from Newcastle United for wantaway midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

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Newcastle United have reportedly seen a £46million bid rejected for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

Signed in 2024 for just £8.5million, the 20-year-old is regarded as a top European prospect. Bergvall has shown flashes of quality at Spurs despite finishing 17th in his two chaotic seasons.

Nottingham Forest had a slightly lower offer turned down earlier this week but Tottenham would consider an improved bid. Spurs have already forked out around £250million on new arrivals this summer and remain active in the market.

Roberto De Zerbi has been given licence to rebuild a failing team - with Sandro Tonali the standout buy after leaving Newcastle for £100million earlier this month. Tottenham also forked out £85million on Matheus Fernandes and £60million to sign Jan Paul van Hecke.

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Lucas Bergvall bid rejected

It is understood that Bergvall wants to leave to pursue regular first-team football. He started just 11 Premier League games last season - failing to complete a full 90 minutes despite Spurs’ struggles.

The Magpies face stiff competition from Forest, who have funds available after selling Elliot Anderson to Manchester City. Toon chiefs will feel as though they have the upper hand in negotiations due to recent Champions League campaigns and Carabao Cup success.

The Athletic report that an opening bid was snubbed that would have seen Tottenham quintuple their initial outlay on the midfielder. On a positive note, there is confidence that a deal can be struck as Newcastle to prioritise youth invstment.

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Lucas Bergvall price tag

However, Newcastle will not be happy that their interest has been made public. This was the case with Victor Munoz and Johan Manzambi - two top targets who were hijacked at the final hurdle by Premier League rivals.

As mentioned, Bergvall wants to leave and Tottenham are open to a potential sale. Spurs value the Sweden international at £50million - half the fee that they paid to prise Tonali from St James’ Park.

Sky Sports make Newcastle United decision 24 hours after Sandro Tonali £100m Spurs transfer

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Sky Sports make NUFC decision 24 hours after Sandro Tonali £100m Spurs transfer - Shields Gazette
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Three of Newcastle United’s early 2026/27 Premier League fixtures have been selected for live television coverage.

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Sky Sports have jumped on the back of Sandro Tonali’s club record £100million transfer to Tottenham Hotspur by selecting Newcastle United’s match for live television coverage.

Newcastle’s first away trip ot the 2026/27 campaign will see them visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium where Tonali is set to make his home debut for his new club. The match will take place on Saturday, August 29 with the kick-off time moved to 5:30pm BST.

Newcastle’s home match against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday, September 5 has also had its kick-off time moved to 12:30pm BST after being selected for live coverage on TNT Sports.

The match against Leeds United at Elland Road has been moved to Monday, September 14 (8pm BST kick-off) to be shown live on Sky Sports. A club statement noted that should Leeds or Newcastle progress through to the third round of the Carabao Cup and be drawn against a side participating in the Champions League, the match will revert to Saturday, September 12 with a 12:30pm BST kick-off.

Newcastle United have already held talks with Sandro Tonali replacement as £100m sale confirmed

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Newcastle United confirm £100m Sandro Tonali sale - talks held over replacement - Shields Gazette
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Sandro Tonali has left Newcastle United and joined Tottenham Hotspur for £100million.

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Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has completed his £100million transfer to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs will pay £92.5million up front, with £7.5million in achievable add-ons. It is the second most expensive sale in Newcastle’s history after Alexander Isak’s £130million British record move to Liverpool last summer.

The Magpies have doubled their money on Tonali after signing him from Italian giants AC Milan for £55million in the summer of 2023.

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The 26-year-old was hit with a 10-month betting ban just months after the transfer before returning at the beginning of the 2024-25 season to help United win the Carabao Cup and qualify for the Champions League.

Newcastle United confirm £100million Sandro Tonali sale

Tonali went on to make 110 appearances in total. His sale enables Newcastle to strengthen multiple positions as Eddie Howe rebuilds his squad following last season’s disappointing 12th finish in the Premier League.

“Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has completed a permanent transfer to Tottenham Hotspur,” a Newcastle statement read. “The undisclosed transfer fee represents the second largest fee ever received for a player in Newcastle United’s history.

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“Sandro departs St. James’ Park having made 110 appearances for the club, scoring ten goals in all competitions. The 26-year-old, who joined from AC Milan in summer 2023, leaves having also won major silverware on Tyneside. He played an influential role as the club lifted the Carabao Cup in March 2025, and he featured a further 53 times last season, including 11 appearances in the UEFA Champions League.

“Everybody at Newcastle United thanks Sandro for his contribution to the club and wishes him and his family well for the future.”

Sandro Tonali reacts to joining Tottenham Hotspur

On making the move to Spurs, Tonali said: "I'm very happy to be here. When I arrived at the Club today, it felt fantastic. People said about there being four or five clubs - there was only one.

"I spoke to the Head Coach for close to two hours about the Club, the fans, the stadium and our football. It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham. I've played against Tottenham a few times and always found a great atmosphere made by great fans. I can't wait to start the season."

Meanwhile, manager Robert de Zerbi added: "Sandro is a special player and a great signing for our Club.

"I have followed him for a long time, as he came through the youth system at my hometown club, Brescia, and I'm so happy to be working with him now. Given his qualities, there was a lot of interest in Sandro this summer. However, he was very clear in his desire to join Tottenham, and I know our fans will love what he brings to the team."

Newcastle United eye Sandro Tonali replacement

Newcastle have already strengthened one key position after announcing the £43million arrival of Bazoumma Toure from Hoffenheim on Sunday night.

Toure replaced Anthony Gordon on the left-wing following the England international’s £69million move to Barcelona. Howe will now look to bolster his midfield amid Tonali’s exit.

The Magpies have held talks over signing Johan Manzambi from Freiberg but are expected to face competition from several clubs with the 20-year-old catching the eye at the World Cup with three goals and two assists in four matches.

‘Always been the same’ - Former Newcastle United star blasts Sandro Tonali as supporters learn brutal truth

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‘Always the same’ - Former Newcastle star blasts Sandro Tonali as fans learn truth - Shields Gazette
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Sandro Tonali made no secret of his desire to leave Newcastle United to live in London.

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John Barnes recognises that Sandro Tonali did not leave Newcastle United to better his football career.

The Magpies agreed to sell Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur for a staggering £100million. Few Toon fans were surprised, with the Italian’s agent angling for a move throughout last season.

However, there was an element of bemusement towards Tonali picking Spurs after finishing 17th for two consecutive seasons. The Gazette consistently reported that the 26-year-old and his family desired a move to London - which he confirmed to Italian media on Thursday.

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‘Nothing to do with football’ - John Barnes

Former Newcastle star Barnes noted how Tonali’s exit had “nothing to do” with improving his football career. This is a brutal reality that supporters may need to accept with certain players.

"Except for Liverpool and Manchester United, it’s always been the same,” Barnes said. “For years and years and years, players playing anywhere north of Birmingham want to move to London.

"As much as Newcastle United are doing better than Tottenham, there are foreign players who would rather live in London.

“Foreign players don’t have an allegiance to anywhere in England, even though a move to Liverpool or Manchester United is a bit different, so if a club from London comes calling, then they’re going to go. When people wonder why this move could happen, it’s nothing to do with football.”

Sandro Tonali confirms London truth

On why he left Newcastle, Tonali - who will also pocket £275,000 per week - told reporters: "We decided to make a change, so we are ready for this new adventure. Newcastle wanted the best for me, and I wanted the best deal for Newcastle. So we are all happy, and I am ready for this new challenge.

"Let's say that Roberto De Zerbi did a great job and had a big impact in all this. It is a life choice for my family, because we come from three years at Newcastle, and our lives change with our child's birth. So we decided to change a bit. De Zerbi made a great difference. He did his job, and he did it very well."

‘We’ll talk’ - Sandro Tonali plots Spurs exit hours after agreeing £100m Newcastle United move

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‘We’ll talk’ - Sandro Tonali plots Spurs exit hours after agreeing £100m Newcastle United move - Shields Gazette
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Sandro Tonali has been linked with an AC Milan return ever since he left to join Newcastle United in 2023.

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Sandro Tonali has bizarrely left the door open for an AC Milan return just hours after sealing a Tottenham Hotspur move.

Newcastle United agreed a staggering £100million fee with Spurs on Wednesday night. Tonali jetted to London yesterday to undergo a medical ahead of an official announcement.

He will earn a reported £275,000 per week - a major improvement on his terms on Tyneside. Manchester City and Arsenal had been linked with Tonali’s signature but Tottenham - despite finishing 17th for two consecutive seasons - won the race.

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Sandro Tonali makes bizarre AC Milan claim

Italian media were desperate to unsettle Tonali from the moment he arrived in 2023. Newcastle stumped up £55million to sign the 26-year-old three years ago.

A gambling ban just 12 games into his Toon career fuelled conspiracies about whether AC Milan had prior knowledge to the impending suspension - which they denied. However, it did feed the narrative that Tonali never wanted to be a Newcastle player.

Tonali ultimately referenced “lifestyle and family” as he bid farewell to the Magpies. Speaking to Italian media, he also discussed a future return to Milan.

“There are always rumours about it… we always joke about it,” Tonali said. “But if one day there’s a chance (to return to AC Milan), we’ll seriously talk about that.”

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Sandro Tonali explains Newcastle United exit

On his “agreement” with Newcastle, Tonali added: “It was a bit long. We had a sort of agreement with Newcastle , we spoke every day and we made it. They wanted the best from me, we wanted the best deal for them. We parted on excellent terms , we're all happy and I'm ready for this new adventure.

“Why Tottenham? De Zerbi played a huge role in this, and it's also a lifestyle and family choice after three years at Newcastle. De Zerbi deserves much of the credit; he did it not only as a Brescia and native and a friend, but also as a hard worker; he's committed to this.”

Newcastle United favourite believes £100m Sandro Tonali is 'brilliant' - here's why

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Newcastle United favourite believes £100m Sandro Tonali is 'brilliant' - here's why - Shields Gazette
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Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is closing in on a £100m move to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

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Sandro Tonali’s imminent move from Newcastle United to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur is ‘brilliant’ for Magpies manager Eddie Howe - according to former United captain Kevin Nolan.

Speculation over the Italy international’s future at St James Park has been ongoing in recent weeks and months after the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City were all linked with a big money move for his services. However, Spurs ramped up their interest in recent weeks after Tonali was believed to have revealed his desire to work under Roberto De Zerbi and seek a fresh challenge.

After rejecting an initial bid worth around £80m last month, Newcastle finally accepted an offer worth an initial £92.5m on Wednesday and that figure could rise to £100m if Tonali triggers a number of add-ons during his time in North London. The move comes as part of an overhaul of the Spurs midfield after they completed a deal for West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes on Thursday morning.

Former Magpies captain Nolan believes Spurs have ‘pulled off two major coups’ by landing Fernandes and Tonali - but stressed Newcastle can benefit from the funds they will receive as they look to strengthen their own squad during the summer transfer window.

He told Sky Sports News: “He (Tonali) was a big favourite at Newcastle and when he was suspended for that time, they did miss him. When he did come back, you saw he had a really big impact on the team, on Eddie Howe’s team. It’s brilliant for Eddie to get that money in to overhaul his squad.

“But what they (Spurs) are doing is they have backed De Zerbi massively. They’ve put the money where their mouth is. Fernandes is a fantastic player, I really like him. I watched a lot of West Ham last year at the back end. But even in the early season, when they were struggling, he was the one that you thought he is going to be a top, top player. They needed to shore up and have a central midfield. I’ve always known Tottenham throughout the years, Modric, Carrick, I’ve played against them, all top players and they went on to the next level at that time. It was needed and they’ve pulled off two major coups there.”

Sandro Tonali makes 'excellent' Newcastle United parting claim - this will split opinion

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Sandro Tonali makes 'excellent' Newcastle United exit claim - this is controversial - Shields Gazette
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Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has broken his silence on his imminent £100million move to Tottenham Hotspur.

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Sandro Tonali believes he is leaving Newcastle United on “excellent terms”.

Tonali is on his way to North London to finalise his £100million transfer to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur after an agreement was reached on Wednesday evening.

Newcastle have nearly doubled their money on the Italian after paying £55million to sign him from AC Milan in 2023. The sale is the second most expensive in the club’s history after Alexander Isak’s £130million British record move to Liverpool last year.

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Sandro Tonali makes ‘excellent’ Newcastle United parting claim

The 26-year-old has only really spent two full seasons at Newcastle after being hit with a 10-month betting ban just a few months into the move.

Tonali resumed playing at the beginning of the 2024-25 campaign, helping the Magpies end their 56-year trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup, as well as qualifying for the Champions League.

But after failing to qualify for Europe last season - instead finishing 12th in the Premier League - Tonali believed he had a verbal agreement to leave United.

His agent, Giuseppe Riso, has been drumming up interest in Tonali since January and despite namechecking the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City, the midfielder has joined Spurs, who have finished 17th in back-to-back Premier League seasons.

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Some Newcastle supporters feel betrayed by Tonali, especially after supporting him through his lengthy betting ban. Tonali, however, believes he is leaving on “excellent terms”.

Tonali told Gianluca Di Marzio: “It was a bit long. We had a sort of agreement with Newcastle , we spoke every day and we made it. They wanted the best from me, we wanted the best deal for them.

“We parted on excellent terms , we're all happy and I'm ready for this new adventure.

“Why Tottenham? De Zerbi played a huge role in this, and it's also a lifestyle and family choice after three years at Newcastle.

“De Zerbi deserves much of the credit; he did it not only as a Brescia and native and a friend, but also as a hard worker; he's committed to this.”