Sandro Tonali has revealed that Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi was the decisive factor behind his move from Newcastle United to Spurs this summer.

The Italy international cited De Zerbi's personal and tactical influence, as well as a desire to improve life for his family, as the primary reasons for leaving Newcastle United after three years at the club.

"Why Tottenham? De Zerbi played a big part in this, and after three years at Newcastle it was also a life and family decision," Tonali said before flying to London to complete his medical.

"De Zerbi deserves a lot of credit, not just as someone from Brescia and a friend, but also as a hard worker — he's really committed to this."

Tonali also described his departure from Newcastle United as amicable, saying negotiations took time but concluded on positive terms. "It took a while. We had a sort of agreement with Newcastle; we spoke every day and we got it done. They wanted the best for me, we wanted the best deal for them. We parted on excellent terms, everyone is happy and I'm ready for this new adventure."

When asked about a possible return to Serie A, the midfielder was clear: "There was never an opportunity to come back to Italy."

Tonali made 110 appearances in all competitions for Newcastle United, contributing 10 goals and 10 assists, before completing what is set to become one of the most expensive transfers in Tottenham Hotspur's history.

He will be De Zerbi's sixth summer arrival at Spurs, following the signings of Marcos Senesi, Andrew Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, Martin Dubravka, and Mateus Fernandes.