Newcastle United release club statement confirming Sandro Tonali news

Newcastle United have confirmed Sandro Tonali is under investigation by the Italian authorities in relation to illegal betting activity.

The 23-year-old and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo withdrew from the Italy squad last Thursday and returned to the United Kingdom following a probe from the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso publicly revealed Tonali is battling a gambling addiction. Tonali returned to Italy yesterday to speak with prosecutors in Turin.

In a statement released by Newcastle, they say Tonali is “fully engaging with the investigation” and in the meantime will be supported by the club.

“Newcastle United can confirm that Sandro Tonali is subject to investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illegal betting activity,” it read.

“Sandro is fully engaging with the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities.

“He and his family will continue to receive the club's full support.

“Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”

As per Sky Italia, it is feared Tonali is facing a lengthy ban after allegedly admitting to betting on AC Milan games when under contract at the Serie A. He spent three years at the San Siro before joining Newcastle in the summer for a fee worth £52million.

It’s widely claimed Tonali could be banned for a maximum of three years, which will be reduced to 12 months for co-operating.

As it stands, Tonali is still eligible to feature in United’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday with his possible selection in the hands of Eddie Howe.