Arsenal have been offered another chance to sign Sandro Tonali, a target for Manchester United and Tottenham, as they pursue Newcastle teammate Bruno Guimaraes. Mikel Arteta is determined to add a top-class midfielder this summer after winning the Premier League title last season.
Arsenal Offered Tonali but Wages a Stumbling Block
The Gunners were heavily linked with Tonali in January, but a deal never materialised. According to Chronicle Live, Tonali's agents at GR Sports offered him to Arsenal again last week, but the club 'did not entertain' his wage demands of around £275,000-a-week or the associated agent fees. Newcastle's £85m price tag also remains a barrier.
Tottenham and Manchester United Lead the Race
Tottenham had a £75m bid rejected by Newcastle and are considering an improved offer. Manchester United, under Michael Carrick, may launch a rival bid after signing Ederson from Atalanta, but they want another midfielder following Casemiro's departure. Tonali is reportedly keen to join the Premier League champions, but Arsenal's reluctance has opened the door for Spurs and United.
Arsenal Shift Focus to Bruno Guimaraes
With Tonali's deal complicated, Arsenal are expected to focus on fellow Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes. Newcastle have denied contact, but talks are expected as Arteta eyes the Brazilian. Guimaraes, who joined in 2022, may be open to a move after Newcastle failed to qualify for European competition, finishing 12th in the Premier League last season after featuring in the Champions League the previous campaign.
Jermaine Jenas Backs Tonali as Upgrade
Former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas believes Tonali would be an upgrade on Arsenal's current midfield. 'In my opinion, Sandro Tonali is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League,' Jenas told 10bet. 'He had his misdemeanour [betting ban], came back, and I thought his attitude from that exact point onward has been brilliant. He's a dictator of a game; he sets the pace and sets the tone every time he plays. He did the same when he was at AC Milan. When I look at that Arsenal midfield, I was never fully convinced by Martín Zubimendi, if I'm honest with you. I think he's a decent, solid player, but Tonali would definitely be a level up in that midfield alongside Declan Rice.'
