Tottenham Hotspur are not a long way away from striking a deal with Newcastle United for Sandro Tonali after their first offer was rejected.
Reports indicate that Spurs are willing to shatter their transfer record to land Tonali as they look to signal their ambition with a high-profile addition.
On Saturday, it emerged that Tottenham had launched a £80m offer for the Italy international, which was imeediately sent back by Newcastle.
The report added that formal contacts are continuing between the Magpies and Spurs as they seek to reach an agreement for the 26-year-old.
Tottenham could seal Sandro Tonali signing over coming days
Gianluca Di Marzio has now claimed that negotiations between the two Premier League clubs over the former AC Milan star are reaching a ‘more advanced stage’.
He suggests that Spurs’ first rejected offer for Tonali was worth £75m, with Eddie Howe’s side holding out for £85m.
The journalist says that the two clubs can reach a compromise on an £80m deal for the midfielder within ‘the next few days’.
However, Di Marzio adds that Manchester City and Arsenal remain interested in Tonali, and we wait to see if either club enters the race.
Could the Roberto De Zerbi factor help Spurs clinch the deal for Tonali?
It was reported by Sports Boom on Saturday that Arsenal is the Newcastle star’s preferred destination this summer, which leaves the Lilywhites susceptible to a hijack if the Gunners substantiate their interest.
However, we know Tonali has a good relationship with Roberto De Zerbi, and Spurs will be hoping that the 46-year-old can convince the midfielder about the project at N17.
The fact that Tottenham are now in talks with Newcastle is a positive sign as it suggests they are relatively confident that the player wants the move.