Newcastle United are preparing for three Premier League rivals to launch bids for Sandro Tonali in the summer.
During what was a relatively quiet end to the transfer window on deadline day, perhaps the biggest story was Arsenal's reported late interest in Newcastle star Tonali.
According to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, the London club held direct talks about a deadline day move that would have appeared to come out of nowhere.
However, the claims were later denied by various sources, with Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, claiming that they held no talks with Arsenal over a move.
But following the reports, it has emerged that Newcastle United are well aware that they will have to prepare for at least three Premier League sides pursuing Tonali in the near future.
Tonali was linked with a surprise move to Arsenal on deadline day. (Image: Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Tonali was linked with a surprise move to Arsenal on deadline day. (Image: Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Addressing the rumours, Riso said:“We never had any conversation with Arsenal.
“Newcastle were never gonna let Tonali leave in January. There’s absolutely nothing into it. We didn’t even talk about it.”
But it is believed that this could all change in the summer, as the Gunners are expected to ramp up their interest in the Italian midfielder, with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said to be a big admirer.
A report from SunSport, claims that Arsenal could a huge £100million fee for Tonali and Arteta sees him as the perfect midfield partner for star player Declan Rice.
But Arsenal aren't the only club said to be considering a move for Tonali this summer, as Manchester City are also reportedly interested in launching a bid at the end of the season.
The report claims that, like Arteta, Pep Guardiola is a big fan of the midfielder and is considering a double transfer swoop for both him and Newcastle teammate Tino Livramento in the summer.
Finally, it is reported that Chelsea are also in the race to sign Tonali, and could launch a bid should it become clear that he's available ahead of next season.
Tonali is likely to attract major interest in the summer. (Image: Ibrahim Ezzat/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Tonali is likely to attract major interest in the summer. (Image: Ibrahim Ezzat/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
That being said, it's also been reported that, unlike former teammate Alexander Isak, Tonali is not prepared to force a move to any of the top clubs that are considering launching a bid.
Failure to qualify for the Champions League next season however, could change things.
But, as it stands, Tonali and wife Juliette, who recently welcomed a baby boy named Leonardo, are happy where they are and will not actively pursue an exit when the transfer window reopens in June.