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After Summerville: Ornstein drops out-of-the-blue update involving £100m Man United target this morning

Tottenham Hotspur have ignited their pursuit of Sandro Tonali, who has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United.

The news comes courtesy of the ever-reliable David Ornstein (via The Athletic) this morning, who adds that ‘positive talks’ have taken place between Spurs and the midfielder.

Spurs reach out to Sandro Tonali

Tottenham’s interest is being spearheaded by Roberto De Zerbi, though the London club are yet to make any contact with Newcastle United.

It’s thought that the Magpies value Tonali in the region of £100 million, having shelled out £55m to bring him in from AC Milan in July 2023.

The transfer fee set by Newcastle will be a ‘bigger challenge’ for Spurs, as personal terms are likely to be easily agreed.

Elsewhere, the Red Devils have not yet materialised their interest in the Italian, but Fabrizio Romano has previously revealed that Tonali would be open to joining United.

Is Tonali still being targeted by United?

One of the main reasons he had begun questioning his future at St. James’ Park was when it became clear they would not be playing in the Champions League next season. Spurs are also unable to offer UCL football, but United can.

Tottenham stepping up their pursuit by approaching the player may prompt INEOS to spring into action and hold talks themselves.

However, if recent speculation is anything to go by, they would rather sign West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, who is five years younger than Tonali.

If they are to do business with the Tyneside outfit at all, it looks as though it may be for Lewis Hall.

He has been identified as an ideal long-term successor to Luke Shaw, and faces an uncertain future at his boyhood club after their 12th-placed finish and his World Cup squad omission.