Sandro Tonali caused a stir after Newcastle United’s win over Athletic Club, but there is no reason to panic.
The midfielder spoke to the media after the Magpies’ Champions League triumph and was asked about his future. Sandro Tonali was very honest and open, refusing to say he will still be at the club in 10 years’ time.
After the Alexander Isak debacle, it would be easy for Toon fans to worry about the prospect of losing another star.
However, that is not how transfer expert Graeme Bailey sees it.
Sandro Tonali and Nick Pope arrive at St James' Park for Newcastle United vs Athletic Club.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Sandro Tonali committed to Newcastle United in the ‘short-term’
Bailey has spoken exclusively to Geordie Boot Boys about Tonali’s comments, admitting that the midfielder is settled in the North East.
“I saw them as he is underlining his short-term commitment to the club,” he said.
“He’s got his new deal. Obviously he’s just being realistic. He’s not going to be at Newcastle for 10 years. I don’t think we can read too much into his comments. Not all foreign players settle in the North East as well as you would want, but he has. I wouldn’t worry too much about what he has said.
“The links of a move away will continue as they always do. He has top clubs looking at him, but there is not much he can do about that. It is always going to happen with how well he is playing.”
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Newcastle United need to get on Sandro Tonali’s level
Newcastle United have no problems with what Tonali said, and nor should they.
He has not said he wants to leave, but he has not ruled out the possibility of a move away. He has been very honest, which is refreshing after what happened with Isak over the summer.
Tonali is clearly happy at St James’ Park, but there is pressure on the club to maintain that happiness.
That will come from ensuring Newcastle United continue to challenge for trophies and compete in the Champions League. That is what a player of Tonali’s calibre needs.
He also needs to be paid accordingly. The 25-year-old is arguably the best midfielder in the Premier League right now, in the same way that Alexander Isak was the Premier League’s best striker last season.
Newcastle United know what they have in Tonali, and they must do everything in the coming years to ensure they remain on his level.