Tonali to Spurs Deal "On" – Romano Stands Firm as Fourth Summer Signing Takes Shape

Fabrizio Romano isn't budging on his Sandro Tonali story. The transfer insider doubled down on Friday night, maintaining that a deal between Tottenham and Newcastle's midfielder remains very much alive, even as Manchester City circle.

Spurs have already bolstered their ranks this summer with three arrivals: Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi arrived on free transfers following the expiration of their Liverpool and Bournemouth contracts respectively, while Jan Paul van Hecke joined for £52m from Brighton to reunite with manager Roberto De Zerbi.

De Zerbi, installed as Tottenham boss in March after rescuing the club from a relegation scrap, has midfield reinforcement firmly on his agenda. The Italian tactician wants Tonali as the focal point of his overhaul, viewing him as the calibre of player needed to elevate Spurs' ambitions.

Tottenham's initial midfield target, West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, appears to be slipping away to Manchester United following preliminary enquiries from the North London outfit. That's pushed Tonali front and centre in their planning.

Romano's latest assertion is emphatic. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he stated: "Tottenham are working on a deal for Sandro Tonali. Tottenham are aware of the player being open to joining. That was my message, and that remains my message."

He continued: "I keep telling you about Tonali and Tottenham. Should anything change, I will come here and update you. But as of today, we are entering into the weekend, I keep telling you Sandro Tonali and Tottenham, wanted by Roberto De Zerbi in talks. So, deal on Tottenham, Sandro Tonali. That's the understanding, that's the story."

The Tottenham transfer chief had already revealed his exclusive claim that De Zerbi wanted Tonali as a statement signing to demonstrate the club's fresh ambitions, with Spurs prepared to lock horns with Manchester City and Arsenal for his signature.

However, Manchester City have reportedly strengthened their hand. TEAMtalk claimed the club are "increasingly confident" of landing Tonali should he remain in England, having impressed the Italy international's camp with their wider project package. Discussions extended beyond footballing matters, with City outlining their long-term vision, the midfielder's role within the squad, and family support structures. Those conversations have kept City in serious contention despite Tonali's stated intention to eventually return to Serie A.

Yet Romano insists Tonali's preference remains Tottenham, with the player receptive to joining De Zerbi's project.

Should the deal materialise, Tonali would represent the fourth of seven summer signings Tottenham are targeting. According to Paul O'Keefe, ENIC's ambitions extend further: a left winger, right winger, and new striker are also on the recruitment agenda before the window closes.