Roberto De Zerbi has explained what convinced Tottenham Hotspur to make Sandro Tonali the most expensive signing in the club’s history after completing a blockbuster move for the Italy international.
If you had suggested a few months ago that Tottenham Hotspur would spend £100m on Sandro Tonali, most supporters would probably have laughed it off.
Yet that is exactly what the Lilywhites have now done, officially announcing the Italy international as the most expensive signing in the club’s history.
After breaking their transfer record less than a week earlier to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United for £85m, Spurs went one step further by bringing Tonali to North London in a deal worth £100m.
Tottenham have De Zerbi to thank for playing a huge role in making the move happen. Multiple journalists reported throughout negotiations that the Italian head coach personally pushed for the signing, while Tonali himself was ‘keen’ on the opportunity to work under De Zerbi despite Spurs having no European football to offer next season.
The pair also share a connection away from football, with both hailing from Brescia in Italy, and De Zerbi’s comments after the transfer help explain exactly why Tottenham were prepared to invest so heavily in the midfielder.
Roberto De Zerbi explains Sandro Tonali signing
Speaking to Tottenham Hotspur’s official site following Sandro Tonali’s arrival, De Zerbi said: “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.”
Johan Lange outlines Tottenham’s vision for Tonali
Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange also spoke about the club’s decision to invest heavily in the Italy international, outlining why Sandro Tonali was viewed as the ideal addition to Roberto De Zerbi’s rebuild.
Speaking after the midfielder’s arrival was confirmed, Lange said: “Sandro is one of the best midfielders in Europe and we are delighted to welcome him to the Club.
“He has outstanding technical quality to go with real football intelligence, and has the character to thrive in a demanding, high-pressure environment. Sandro brings valuable experience at the highest level, both domestically and in European competition and I know our supporters will love his energy and commitment on the pitch.
“We are all excited to see him pull on our famous Lilywhite shirt for the first time.”