Chelsea are continuing to map out their long-term midfield plans as they look beyond the current transfer window and towards future squad building. While January business remains measured, recruitment staff are already identifying proven Premier League performers who could strengthen the spine of the team in the seasons ahead.
Midfield depth is an area under ongoing review at Stamford Bridge, particularly as the club balance short-term competitiveness with longer-term stability. That has led Chelsea to monitor several established names across the league - with one Newcastle United player now firmly on their radar.
Fresh reporting has shed light on that interest.
Chelsea tracking Tonali for long-term move
Sandro Tonali applauding the Newcastle United supporters
According to Football Insider, Chelsea are closely monitoring Sandro Tonali as a potential future signing.
Sources state Chelsea’s interest is focused on the summer of 2026, rather than the current January window, with the club exploring options for proven Premier League midfielders who could elevate their squad over the longer term. Tonali, 25, fits that profile and is said to be firmly admired internally.
The Italy international, who earns £190,000-a-week, is under contract at Newcastle United until the summer of 2029, having recently committed his future to the club. That contractual position means any move would be complex and likely require a significant financial outlay.
Why Chelsea see Tonali as an attractive option
Sandro Tonali looks on
Chelsea’s interest comes amid concerns over depth behind their current midfield core. While Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez form a strong first-choice trio, there are questions over the reliability of the options beyond them.
Andrey Santos is viewed as a developing player, while Romeo Lavia has endured persistent injury issues. As a result, Chelsea are keen to ensure greater depth and durability in midfield moving forward.
Tonali’s Premier League experience, physicality and consistency this season have helped elevate him into serious consideration. He has been at the top of his game for Newcastle, reinforcing why Chelsea see him as a potential long-term solution rather than a short-term fix.
Newcastle stance could complicate any deal
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe applauds fans after the match vs Everton
Despite Chelsea’s admiration, Newcastle are hopeful of keeping Tonali and believe the club should be rewarded with his loyalty after standing by him during his lengthy betting suspension. Internally, there is confidence that he remains a central part of their future plans.
That stance means Chelsea would likely need to place significant money on the table to test Newcastle’s resolve, particularly given Tonali’s long contract and importance to Eddie Howe’s side.
For now, the interest remains at the monitoring stage rather than active pursuit. But with Chelsea planning well ahead, Tonali is a name that could resurface strongly when the time is right - even if prising him away from St James’ Park proves a formidable challenge.