Arsenal have been linked with a move for Sandro Tonali.placeholder image
Arsenal have been linked with a move for Sandro Tonali. | Getty Images
Arsenal and Manchester City continue to have attention grabbed by the agent of a Newcastle United midfielder.
Arsenal have been handed a clue as to when they could complete a transfer move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali as the Italian continues to be linked with a move away from St James’ Park.
The Gunners were reportedly considering a Deadline Day swoop for the Magpies man in February following an injury to Mikel Merino. Nothing came of those links but Tonali’s agent continues to stoke the fire of transfer talk.
Our sister site NewcastleWorld relays the latest quote from Beppe Riso, which could perk the ears of Arsenal chiefs, should they still hold any transfer interest.
Tonali is under contract at Newcastle United until 2029, having signed a new deal behind the scenes during his ban for illegal betting. However, Riso has spoken out about his client’s desire to play for a ‘top’ club.
Sandro Tonali transfer talk could ‘kick off’ after World Cup
The latest words namecheck Arsenal and Manchester City as the agent outlined a potential timeline. He told Calcio & Finanza: “That was the aim from the moment he went to England - to try and turn him into a star player.
“I think he’s the Italian player with one of the highest values in the world. I don’t know (whether he will join Man City or Arsenal). But it’s very likely. Everyone is waiting for the World Cup; then a thousand scenarios will unfold, but it all kicks off after the World Cup.”
Riso has previously denied speaking to Arsenal directly and Eddie Howe confronted the rumours after the winter window. The Magpies boss said: "His only focus was on Manchester City and trying to win that game so there's absolutely no issue with Sandro himself. He's very happy and committed so I find it difficult to talk about things I don't know too much about.
"I can only talk about Sandro as the person and player, and his mindset here and now. Having discussed things with him yesterday, he's absolutely fine."
Tonali had addressed his future in November and, while maintaining his commitment to Newcastle United, didn’t appear to rule out an exit. Following a Champions League win against Athletic Club in November, he said: "This is a tough question because, you know, [in] football you need to think year for year. I don't want to say I want to stay here 10 years and in two years, three years, four years [or] five years I will go."
In other news, Arsenal's likely first summer sale becomes clear as £45m transfer nears.
Continue Reading