Newcastle United have long been expecting Sandro Tonali's possible departure and sourcing a replacement has been on their agenda in transfer meetings since the spring. The Italian signed for the Magpies in 2003 from AC Milan, which was a coup at the time for the club as they returned to the Champions League. Tonali remains a standout performer and, alongside Bruno Guimaraes, forms one of the best midfields in the Premier League.
Newcastle did have to stomach a ten-month ban handed to their Italian following gambling breaches, but stuck by him. Last season there was noise over him seeking a move elsewhere, especially now the team have missed out on Europe.
Tottenham have emerged as a left-field option with Roberto de Zerbi particularly keen. Arsenal too have been credited with having a genuine interest and Newcastle have not been naive to the fact that Tonali could move on.
The Telegraph reports that key figures at St James’ Park have expected Tonali to go for several months and during recruitment meetings have been looking to identify potential replacements.
One club who will not be pursuing Tonali is Manchester United, despite their desire to strengthen their midfield. The Red Devils had been monitoring the situation, but have told Newcastle they will not be going after the Italian. They believe the combined cost of the transfer fee coupled the player’s wage demands is too much.
Arsenal, off the back of winning the Premier League, would be a serious attraction but the Gunners do already have Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi as options in the middle of the pitch. They are also looking to bolster their forward line.
Manchester City could yet move as they embark on their new era post-Pep Guardiola. They are looking for a long-term replacement for Rodri and it remains to be seen whether they walk away from any move for Elliot Anderson, with the move now being talked up as a £120million transfer.
Newcastle though wouldn't let Tonali leave on the cheap and Newcastle's asking price is set to be around the £100m mark. The Magpies' need to sell another of their top players has been lessened by their decision to let Anthony Gordon move to Barcelona for £70m.
