Published Jul 1, 2026, 2:51 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years.

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to clinch his first job in journalism at Snack Media, now Valnet.

Emilio has written for a host of the company's biggest past and current football news websites - Vital Football, The Transfer Tavern and Football FanCast. 

Emilio's strengths include the intricacies of football transfers, while he particularly enjoys writing about the business side of football. He has covered Tottenham Hotspur on a weekly basis for a number of years now, developing a deep understanding of the culture and what Lilywhites fans engage with.

In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

Fernandes is expected to become one of the headline additions of the summer as Roberto De Zerbi reshapes the spine of his squad ahead of the new campaign.

Fernandes' arrival is not expected to end Tottenham's business in midfield, though.

The North London club have also remained heavily linked with Tonali, with reports throughout the window suggesting discussions have taken place as Spurs explore the possibility of landing another high-profile midfielder.

Earlier in the summer, it was widely reported that Tottenham saw an opening to test Newcastle's resolve with an £80m bid, but it was knocked back, so any move would require a substantial transfer fee which could amount to £100m.

When you add up wages, bonuses, agent's fees and additional commissions, the transfer could total a whopping £200m according to Chronicle chief writer Lee Ryder, so Spurs are not messing around.

Tonali's strong links to N17 have now received fresh attention following activity on social media from one of football's best-known transfer reporters.

Fabrizio Romano drops teasing Sandro Tonali to Tottenham hint on X

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano posted three teasing emojis in relation to the Tonali situation, prompting widespread speculation among supporters over what the update could mean for Tottenham's pursuit.

While Romano did not provide any further detail alongside the post, the message quickly fuelled fresh discussion about the midfielder's future and whether a move could be imminent.

Tonali has established himself as one of the Premier League's leading central midfielders over the past few seasons.

Why Tonali would be a sensational signing for Tottenham

He first rose to prominence with Brescia, where his mature displays earned comparisons with Italy icons like Andrea Pirlo before AC Milan secured his signature in 2021.

During his time at San Siro, Tonali played a major role in Milan's Serie A title-winning campaign, combining defensive discipline with excellent distribution and leadership beyond his years.

His performances convinced Newcastle to complete a major transfer in 2023, bringing one of Italy's standout midfielders to the Premier League.

When finally available after his on-field ban, Tonali demonstrated his ability to dictate the tempo of matches, break up opposition attacks and progress the ball through midfield with calm, accurate passing.

His tactical intelligence also allows him to operate as a holding midfielder, a deep-lying playmaker or as part of a midfield three.

That versatility is one of the reasons Tottenham continue to admire him.

If Spurs eventually succeed in bringing Tonali to North London, they would be adding a player capable of elevating their entire midfield.

Alongside Fernandes, Tonali would offer balance, composure and leadership, while his experience competing in the Champions League could also prove invaluable.