Sandro Tonali has lifted the lid on the thinking behind one of the biggest Premier League transfers of the summer, insisting his departure from Newcastle United was never about forcing a move but about finding the best solution for everyone involved.
Now a Tottenham Hotspur player, the Italy international has explained that family considerations, Roberto De Zerbi's influence and a desire for a fresh challenge all contributed to his decision.
At the same time, Tonali stressed he wanted Newcastle to receive the strongest possible deal, reflecting the gratitude he still feels towards the club that stood by him during the most difficult period of his career.
Tonali has confirmed that he personally instructed those handling his transfer to ensure Newcastle benefited financially if he was going to leave St James' Park.
The midfielder explained that the Magpies deserved the best possible outcome after supporting him throughout his career in England, including during his lengthy suspension.
Rather than seeking a quick exit, Tonali said the objective was to reach an agreement that worked for every party before committing to Tottenham.
Although several clubs were linked with the Italian midfielder, Tonali revealed that Tottenham quickly became his preferred destination.
A major reason was new head coach Roberto De Zerbi, whose vision for the club made an immediate impression during lengthy discussions before the transfer was completed.
Tonali admitted those conversations convinced him that Tottenham offered the ideal sporting project for the next stage of his career.
Beyond football, the decision was also influenced by his family. Following the birth of his child, Tonali explained that he and his family wanted a different lifestyle after three years in Newcastle, making a move to London an attractive opportunity.
Despite choosing to leave, Tonali made it clear there is no bitterness towards Newcastle United.
He spoke warmly about the people at the club, describing them as some of the best professionals he has worked with during his career.
He also praised the supporters and acknowledged the backing he received from manager Eddie Howe, club officials and fans throughout his suspension and subsequent return to football.
Those experiences, Tonali explained, are why ensuring Newcastle secured a significant transfer fee remained one of his priorities throughout negotiations.
Tottenham's ambitious long-term project also proved decisive.
Tonali believes De Zerbi's tactical philosophy and commitment to building a competitive squad provide the ideal environment for him to continue developing.
The Italian coach's detailed vision, combined with Tottenham's ambition to compete for major honours, convinced the midfielder that the move represented one of the biggest decisions of his career.
Having completed the transfer, Tonali says his full focus is now on helping Spurs achieve success while adapting quickly to his new surroundings.
Tonali's comments provide rare insight into the personal side of modern football transfers.
While transfer stories often focus solely on fees and negotiations, the midfielder's explanation highlights how family life, trust in a manager and gratitude towards a former club can shape major career decisions.
His remarks are also likely to be appreciated by Newcastle supporters, many of whom wondered why one of their most influential midfielders chose to leave after becoming a fan favourite.
• Sandro Tonali says he wanted Newcastle United to receive the best possible transfer deal before leaving.
• Family considerations and a desire for a lifestyle change played a major role in his decision.
• Roberto De Zerbi's vision convinced Tonali that Tottenham was the right destination.
• Tonali thanked Newcastle, Eddie Howe and the club's supporters for standing by him during difficult moments.
• The Italy international now turns his full attention to helping Tottenham compete for major honours.
●⚽ Goal: Was Tottenham the right career move for Sandro Tonali?
●🔥 Fire: Should Newcastle supporters appreciate Tonali's honesty about wanting the best deal for the club?
●😲 Shock: Do you think Roberto De Zerbi was the biggest factor behind the transfer?
●👍 Like: Would Tonali have stayed if Newcastle's project had developed differently?
●💬 Comment: How do you think Sandro Tonali will perform in his first season at Tottenham?
With the transfer saga now firmly behind him, Tonali's attention shifts to Tottenham's upcoming fixtures as he continues settling into Roberto De Zerbi's system.
Spurs supporters will be eager to see their marquee signing establish himself quickly, while Newcastle begin life without one of the Premier League's standout midfielders.
