Chelsea could enter a three-way battle for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to reports.
There were rumours that Arsenal were plotting a move for the Italian international before the January transfer window closed after Mikel Merino sustained what could be a long-term injury.
However, Tonali’s agent played down the claims, despite trusted journalist David Ornstein confirming that a representative of the player had contacted the Gunners.
Now, The Sun claim that Mikel Arteta’s side could be joined by Chelsea AND Manchester City in a “£100m Blockbuster swoop” when the window reopens in the summer.
Tonali is an ambitious player
It is believed that the 25-year-old is grateful that the Magpies stood by him during his 10-match ban for betting infringements, but he would be open to joining another club if they don’t qualify for the Champions League again this season.
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Tonali is not expected to force a move away from St James’ Park, unlike Alexander Isak. He has a good relationship with manager Eddie Howe, and he is reportedly settled in the area, but he does harbour big ambitions that are unlikely to be realised if he stays at his current team.
Chelsea will have to pay a sizeable fee
As The Sun mentions, Newcastle are set to slap a price tag of around £100m on the Italian. His contract has an option to extend it until the summer of 2029, so that effectively means he has another three and a half years on his current deal. With that being the case, the Magpies are under no pressure to sell.
Chelsea are expected to go big in the market for a new midfielder at the end of the season. Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Lawrence Stewart are said to have earmarked the position for strengthening, but it remains to be seen if they would go all out for Tonali.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here