At a Glance
- Tonali’s agent comments on transfer rumours
- The Italian is linked with Arsenal and Manchester United
- Newcastle name their price
Newcastle United might have a fight on their hands to keep Sandro Tonali, judging by recent comments made by his agent. The Italian midfielder’s future is the subject of speculation amid reported interest from Arsenal and Manchester United.
David Ornstein of The Athletic reported in January that Tonali’s representative had offered the player to Arsenal. The Gunners opted not to move for the former AC Milan man, but they are thought to be monitoring him.
Manchester United and Manchester City are reportedly also eyeing the 25-year-old, who has just over two years left on his contract, per Matteo Moretto. He’s been at St James’ Park since July 2023, arriving from Milan in a £55m.
Talking too much
Tonali became the most expensive Italian footballer in history when he joined. His performances since his arrival have certainly lived up to expectations.
The Magpies won’t want to lose their midfielder, but his agent, Beppe Riso, has fuelled talk of a potential exit. He spoke to Italian outlet Calcio E Finanza about his client’s St James’ Park transfer:
“The deal came about because a club like Newcastle with unlimited financial resources had decided to invest in Sandro. We considered the idea of having the player play in a higher-level league.”
Riso was then asked about speculation linking him with Arsenal, Manchester United and City:
“Exactly, that was the goal from the moment he went to England – to try to make him a star player. I think he’s the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world.”
| Sandro Tonali (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Appearances: | 29 |
| Goals: | 0 |
| Assists: | 2 |
| Big chances created: | 5 |
| Key passes: | 0.9 |
| Tackles per game: | 1.0 |
| Successful dribbles: | 0.6 (63%) |
| Ground duels won: | 2.7 (54%) |
| Aerial duels won: | 0.4 (50%) |
Those comments do little to refute suggestions that Tonali might be weighing up his future ahead of the summer transfer window. While there is interest from the Premier League, a return to Italy is also considered a possibility.
How much do Newcastle want?
Tonali is one of Eddie Howe’s most important players and he was vital for the Magpies in last season’s Carabao Cup win. He’s enjoying a fine ongoing campaign, registering three goals and seven assists in 46 games across competitions.
Moretto reports that Newcastle will be demanding around €90m (£80m) to sell the Italian. That fee might rule out a possible return to Serie A but wouldn’t deter several of the Premier League’s top clubs.
Arsenal, Manchester United and City all have the financial muscle to afford at that price. The Red Devils are set to bolster their midfield this summer following Casemiro’s departure, while City are looking to continue their rebuild after Kevin De Bruyne’s exit in July 2025.
There were suggestions that the Tyneside giants could demand around £100m for the midfielder. The record-breaking £125m sale of Alexander Isak is used as an example of getting the best value for players.
