Sandro Tonali could be at the centre of a major Premier League transfer battle, with his agent hinting that both Arsenal and Manchester City may move for the Newcastle United midfielder after the World Cup.
Speaking to Calcio e Finanza, Giuseppe Riso revealed that the long-term plan has always been to push Sandro Tonali into football’s elite tier.
“That’s right, that was the goal from the moment he went to England, to try to make him a stellar footballer. I think he’s the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world.”.
Arsenal and Manchester City circle as Tonali’s value soars
Tonali’s performances at Newcastle have already placed him among the Premier League’s most valuable midfielders.
Transfermarkt currently value Tonali at €80m, placing him among the most expensive midfielders in the Premier League. Declan Rice tops the charts at €120m.
Reports in England have already linked Arsenal with a potential move for the Italy international. Riso then responded to those rumours, insisting there had been no talks with the Gunners as yet.
Now he’s been asked about Manchester City being in the mix too. According to Riso, a strong World Cup could quickly accelerate interest from both Arsenal and Manchester City.
“I don’t know, but it’s very likely,” he admitted.
“Everyone is waiting for the World Cup, then a thousand situations are created, but it all starts after the World Cup.”
World Cup set to spark transfer market
Riso expects a turbulent market, with major Italian clubs preparing significant rebuilds and negotiations already being shaped behind the scenes.
“It will be a very intense session, because so many teams have to renew themselves,” he said.
“In the year of the World Cup, the market starts in fact when the tournament ends. Clearly, many negotiations start setting them up now.”
Will Newcastle cash in on Tonali?
The growing interest places Newcastle in a delicate position, balancing Tonali’s rising market value against their ambitions to remain competitive at the top end of the Premier League.
Tonali remains a central figure under Eddie Howe, and Newcastle United are naturally reluctant to consider any sale.
His current deal also runs until 2029, so there is no pressing need on that front. That deal also includes the option of another year, further strengthening the Magpies’ hand.
That doesn’t mean Tonali won’t leave, but it does put Newcastle in a much stronger position financially if the midfielder wants to move on. Reports have indicated that is the case, and now his agent has opened the door to the idea further.