Tottenham Hotspur's ambitious push to sign Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali has suffered an early setback, with the Magpies rejecting an £80 million offer for the Italian midfielder.

Despite the refusal, Spurs are not expected to walk away from the chase. According to Sky Sports' Michael Bridge, Tottenham remain firmly committed to landing Tonali and are prepared to return with a fresh approach.

Bridge underlined that the rejection should be seen as the opening move in what is likely to be a prolonged negotiation, rather than a signal that the deal is dead. Tottenham's determination to secure the midfielder suggests further bids are on the horizon.

Tonali has established himself as one of the most sought-after central midfielders in the Premier League since his arrival at Newcastle, making him an understandably difficult player for the club to let go — particularly at a fee they consider below his true value.

Spurs' willingness to table such a substantial opening offer signals the scale of their ambition this transfer window, with the club's hierarchy clearly identifying Tonali as a priority target to reinforce the engine room of their midfield.

Whether Newcastle can be persuaded to sell — and at what price — remains the central question as discussions are expected to continue in the coming weeks.