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Tottenham Hotspur have been advised to increase their proposal for Sandro Tonali after Newcastle United turned down their first bid, as talks between the two Premier League clubs continue over a potential high-profile transfer.

Tottenham have officially entered negotiations with Newcastle for the signing of Tonali, though their initial offer has reportedly fallen short of the Magpies’ expectations. The north London club are determined to secure a marquee addition for manager Roberto De Zerbi, who has long admired the Italian international midfielder.

Spurs initiate Tonali talks with major opening offer

According to reports from Sky Sport Italy, Tottenham have tabled a formal bid worth between £75 million and £80 million for Tonali, aiming to outmanoeuvre their Premier League rivals in the race for his signature. Spurs intensified their pursuit of the 26-year-old earlier this week, igniting strong competition from Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City, all of whom remain keen on the Italy international.

While Tottenham have already approached Tonali’s representatives to discuss a possible switch to De Zerbi’s side this summer, Newcastle had not previously been contacted regarding a transfer.

Newcastle stand firm on £85m–£100m valuation

Newcastle United are unwilling to part with their midfield cornerstone for less than their full asking price, despite Tottenham’s substantial proposal. As per The Athletic, the Magpies have set a valuation of around £100 million for the player.

The Tyneside club hold a strong bargaining position due to Tonali’s long-term contract. The Italian midfielder joined Newcastle from AC Milan three years ago and was later given a contract extension during his 10-month suspension for gambling breaches, keeping him tied to St James’ Park until 2029. As a result, Newcastle have made it clear to Tonali’s representatives that he will not be allowed to leave unless their valuation is fully met.

De Zerbi’s enduring admiration for Tonali

Roberto De Zerbi’s tactical vision for his revamped Tottenham squad has been the main driving force behind the club’s pursuit of Tonali. The Italian coach has followed Tonali’s career since his early days at Brescia and considers him an essential piece for his long-term project in north London.

De Zerbi previously expressed his admiration for Tonali during his time managing in the Premier League. “I wanted to bring Tonali to Sassuolo if I had stayed after his first season with AC Milan,” De Zerbi said while at Brighton. “I thought maybe we could make it happen. I saw him at Brescia and realised he was the player he has since become.”

Rival clubs monitoring as transfer tension builds

Tottenham’s sudden move for Tonali has caught the attention of other Premier League giants, who are now closely following developments at St James’ Park. Earlier this week, sources within Newcastle suspected that Tottenham’s interest may have been publicised to trigger a response from Arsenal, who had previously attempted to sign the Italian midfielder during the final days of the January transfer window.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports reports that Manchester City continue to maintain an active interest in Tonali as the transfer saga unfolds.