Alan Shearer believes two factors could tempt Sandro Tonali to choose Tottenham Hotspur over Newcastle United this summer — but the Magpies legend admits the move would raise serious eyebrows.
Spurs have already tabled an £80 million bid for the Italian midfielder, which Newcastle swiftly rejected while holding firm on a £100 million valuation. Yet Tottenham remain determined to win the race ahead of Arsenal and Manchester City.
Shearer, speaking to Betfair, acknowledged that London’s appeal and Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival as a new manager could attract Tonali — but he wasn’t buying it.
“Tottenham just avoided relegation. I get the attraction of London but going to Spurs who have finished so low over the last two years would be a surprise career move for Tonali in my eyes,” he said.
The Newcastle icon added that if Tonali has signalled he wants to leave, the Magpies should simply demand their price and move on — with £100 million being the absolute minimum.
Why Spurs Still Have Pull
Despite two nightmare seasons, Tottenham are not without their appeal. Their world-class stadium and training facilities remain elite, and the club ended their trophy drought last season by winning the Europa League.
Spurs have also challenged for the Premier League title and reached a Champions League final within the last decade. With De Zerbi now at the helm and the club going “all in” on recruitment, a rapid return to the top is not out of the question — and Tonali could be the man to help drive it.
