Tottenham have completed the signing of Matheus Fernandes from West Ham, while impending arrival Sandro Tonali has credited head coach Roberto De Zerbi as the key influence behind his move from Newcastle United. Fernandes joins Spurs in a deal reportedly worth �85million, though Spurs have not confirmed the length of his contract.Im very excited for this next step, the 21-year-old told the clubs official website. Spurs is a massive club and the head coach was a key part of why I have decided to join.When we spoke, it was very special. We look at football in the same way going onto the pitch as a strong team, with fight and energy, to try and win every game. I cant wait to get started, to meet the fans, to meet everyone, and give everything for the club.De Zerbi said of the Portuguese midfielder: Ive admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play.Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League and has shown quality and consistency at this level. Mateus is comfortable under pressure, can progress the ball, works hard for the team and has the courage to make things happen in difficult moments. I believe this is the ideal environment for him to continue his development and Im excited to start working with him.Tonali: De Zerbi deserves all credit for Tottenham moveFernandes will look to transform the Spurs midfield alongside Tonali, who is set to sign from Newcastle for a reported package totalling �100million.Tonali had attracted interest from the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City.Despite Spurs lack of European footballl, Tonali elected to sign for Spurs and join a coach in De Zerbi, who was born in Brescia, the city that played host to Tonalis rise to the professional ranks.Before joining AC Milan, Tonali played three seasons for Brescia after coming through their academy.Speaking to Sky Sport Italia at Milans Linate Airport before flying to London for his medical, Tonali said of the transfer process: It was a bit long. We had a sort of agreement with Newcastle, we spoke every day and we made it. They wanted the best for me, we wanted the best deal for them.We parted on excellent terms. Were all happy and Im ready for this new adventure.Why Tottenham? De Zerbi played a huge role in this, and its also a lifestyle and family choice after three years at Newcastle. De Zerbi deserves much of the credit. He did it not only as a Brescia native and a friend, but also as a hard worker. Hes committed to this.Well take it step by step. Medicals and signing, and then well go on retreat. The team will be assembled in a month because the World Cup is here. The club is coming off a difficult season, but well try to make sure everything goes well.Tonali has been consistently linked with a return to Milan since joining Newcastle and, asked about re-joining the Rossoneri at some point in his career, the 26-year-old did not close the door on that possibility.We joke about this every now and then, Tonali added. But if there is one day the opportunity we will speak about it seriously. Topics Newcastle United F.C. Premier League Tottenham Hotspur F.C. West Ham United F.C. Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Newcastle agree deal for Ivory Coast winger Toure Nicholas McGee 1st July, 2026 Tottenham agree �100m deal for Newcastle midfielder Tonali Nicholas McGee 1st July, 2026 Tottenham agree deal to sign West Ham midfielder Fernandes Jon Fisher 30th June, 2026 Chelsea refuse to reference Maresca by name as they confirm new Man City boss will pay them compensation Nicholas McGee 29th June, 2026 Enzo Maresca: Man City confirm former Chelsea manager will succeed Pep Guardiola at 10-time Premier League champions Mitch Fretton 29th June, 2026 Newcastle reject Arsenals �55m bid for Guimaraes second offer expected Jon Fisher 26th June, 2026
