Tottenham's British-record £100million swoop for Sandro Tonali was reportedly built on more than just financial muscle, according to EPL Index, with the club's pursuit centred heavily around convincing the midfielder of their ambition and identity.
The report suggests Roberto De Zerbi played a key role in sealing the deal, with Tonali said to have been swayed by the project being put in front of him rather than simply the size of the fee involved. Tonali himself is understood to have spoken about the move in terms of "100% passion," framing his decision as one driven by belief in what Spurs are building rather than money alone.
Becoming the most expensive signing in Tottenham's history places significant expectation on the Italian's shoulders, but the emphasis from those involved in the deal has been on trust and vision. If accurate, it points to a club selling a footballing project as much as a transfer fee — with Tonali arriving convinced Spurs' plans matched his own ambitions.