Arsenal have been dealt a potentially devastating blow in their pursuit of an elite midfielder.
Arsenal were considered favourites to sign Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali.
According to recent reports, Tottenham Hotspur have agreed personal terms with Tonali.
The proposed package reportedly includes a significant wage increase on his current Newcastle deal and a lucrative signing bonus.
Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi is believed to be a strong admirer of his fellow Italian.
The 26-year-old is expected to leave the Magpies this summer.
Manchester City are also keeping a close eye on developments and could enter the race regardless of what happens with their pursuit of Elliot Anderson.
The growing competition is far from ideal for Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains determined to strengthen his Premier League-winning squad with another elite midfielder.
Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi formed one of the strongest partnerships in England last season before the latter lost momentum during the final few weeks of the campaign.
Arteta has “set his sights” on bringing Tonali to the Emirates Stadium, but Newcastle are demanding a fee in the region of £100 million to sanction his departure.
His contract runs until 2029 and the club hold an option to extend that agreement by a further year.
With Tottenham now emerging as serious contenders, Arsenal may be forced to accelerate their plans and submit an official offer sooner than expected.
Arsenal had also explored the possibility of signing West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes. However, the 21-year-old is believed to favour a move to Old Trafford.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com