Italian media make big Sandro Tonali claim days before Newcastle United transfer window opens
Sandro Tonali is effectively contracted to Newcastle United until 2030.
Sandro Tonali is reportedly the dream signing Juventus would like to make in the January transfer window.
Italian media outlets have continuously linked the midfielder with a Serie A return throughout his Newcastle United career. Toon chiefs stumped up £55million to sign Tonali from AC Milan in 2023.
The 25-year-old has felt a sense of loyalty to repay the faith Newcastle showed in him during his gambling ban. Tonali was slapped with a 10-month suspension just 12 games into his spell on Tyneside.
Sandro Tonali gives unconvincing answer
However, that gratitude will not last forever and concerns were raised by an unconvincing answer he gave to the media last month. When asked last if his long-term future will be at Newcastle, Tonali told reporters: “This is a tough question because in football you need to think year on year. I don’t want to say I want to stay here 10 years and in two years, three years, four years, five years I will go.
“I want to think, just for me, year on year. This is football. Last summer was tough for us, for Alex (Isak), but this is football. If you have an option for your life, for another team you need to think about everything. I don’t want to say, ‘Yes, I want to stay here for 10 years’ but now I’m happy here. I don’t think anything about another team.”
Fresh claims from Italian media
Gazzetta dello Sport claims Juve are wanting a playmaker and a wide midfielder in January. Tonali is listed as the “dream” signing but the Old Lady will also rely on the knowledge of new sporting director Marco Ottolini.
Recent financial problems make signing Tonali a pipe dream. Newcastle would likely command a fee of around £100million for the midfielder, who is contracted at St James’ Park until 2030.
Eddie Howe on Sandro Tonali extension
Newcastle agreed a contract extension with Tonali during his ban but kept the update under wraps. It became public knowledge earlier this season, with reporters grilling Eddie Howe on the issue.
"A lot happened around the time he was banned,” Howe responded. “A lot of discussions were had. Sandro has felt the love of everyone connected with the football club.
“He felt that love and support and needed it at the time. He has been brilliant for us. You can never foresee what the future holds, I've learnt that. Sandro is happy, he is enjoying his football, he is integral to the team."