adminThe 20-year-old arrived on Tyneside after flying in on Thursday afternoon and is now completing the usual transfer formalities, including his medical.
The Hoffenheim winger is expected to sign a long-term contract and fill the void left by England international Anthony Gordon, who joined Barcelona earlier in the transfer window.
The left-footed winger is set to become Newcastle’s first major outfield signing as the club begins life after Gordon and Sandro Tonali.
Newcastle are also expected to move quickly for another signing, with Archie Gray and Johan Manzambi of Freiburg among the players on their shortlist.
However, sources on Tyneside insist that no bid has been submitted for former Leeds United youngster Gray, despite speculation online.
Manzambi, meanwhile, has impressed with Switzerland during the World Cup and remains a player of interest.
Tonali’s move to Tottenham Hotspur is expected to be confirmed soon after the midfielder made it clear he wanted a fresh challenge.
Newcastle were reluctant to sell to Spurs, but Tonali explained that both parties ultimately reached an agreement that suited everyone.
Speaking to reporters at Milan airport before his departure, Tonali said:
> “Absolutely. We’ve decided to make a change, so we’re ready for this new adventure.
> “Newcastle wanted the best for me and we wanted the best deal for them. So I think that once you go like this it is different, so we are all happy and I am ready for the new challenge.”
Asked why he chose Tottenham, Tonali replied:
> “Let’s say Roberto De Zerbi had a big percentage in this, and for a life choice, we come from Newcastle and our lives change with our child’s birth. So we decided to change a bit.
> “De Zerbi made a great difference and did the job very well.”
The Magpies were informed earlier this month that Tonali wanted to leave through his agent, Giuseppe Riso.
A number of clubs were approached over a possible transfer, including Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
