Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali has become a central figure in the summer transfer window, with several top clubs circling the Italian midfielder. The Magpies have placed a £100m price tag on Tonali, a valuation they are determined to uphold, especially after missing out on European football and needing to fund a squad rebuild.
Tottenham's Initial Bid Rejected
Tottenham Hotspur are the only club to have made a formal bid for Tonali, but their offer fell well short of Newcastle's asking price and was immediately dismissed. Spurs, under Roberto De Zerbi, are also targeting West Ham's Matheus Fernandes and Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, alongside deals for Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson, and Marcos Senesi. A second bid is expected but has not yet materialized.
Arsenal Reconsider Their Stance
Arsenal had shown strong interest in Tonali during the January window but were deterred by Newcastle's valuation. However, Tottenham's move has prompted the Gunners to reconsider, and they are now weighing a bid of their own to test Newcastle's resolve.
Manchester City's Position
Manchester City have cooled their interest in Tonali after offering Rodri a new contract and closing in on a £130m deal for Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson. While former boss Pep Guardiola admired Tonali, the club's budget may not stretch to both Anderson and the Italian, though sales of Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez could free up funds.
Manchester United's Opportunity
Manchester United's pursuit of Tonali hinges on the future of Matheus Fernandes. Manager Michael Carrick is keen to sign at least one top midfielder, and United could target both players, though that may require outgoings at Old Trafford. Unlike Tottenham, United can offer Champions League football next season.
Chelsea Consider a Move
Chelsea have been unusually quiet in the market under Xabi Alonso, but with Enzo Fernandez a target for Real Madrid, the Blues could move for Tonali to anchor their midfield. They have the financial resources to meet the £100m fee, but they will not be in European competition next season.
Newcastle's Replacement Options
Should Tonali depart, Newcastle have identified several replacements, including Lamine Camara, Kees Smit, Hayden Hackney, and Lucas Bergvall, all of whom are expected to make big moves this summer.
