Sandro Tonali will not be returning to Italy this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano, who has firmly pushed back against a string of reports suggesting the Newcastle United midfielder was eyeing a Serie A reunion with Juventus or AC Milan.
The transfer insider was unambiguous on his YouTube channel, stating that a return to Italy “is considered something absolutely impossible” given Newcastle’s expected asking price in the region of £90 million to £110 million. No Italian club can realistically compete at that level against the Premier League clubs circling the 25-year-old.
Romano went further, adding crucial context around the player’s own preference. “My understanding is that Sandro Tonali would like to continue in the Premier League,” he said. “Sandro Tonali is happy at the highest level possible in terms of league, and would be happy to continue in the Premier League.” That confirmation shifts the dynamic significantly, closing off one exit route and narrowing the field of likely destinations for a midfielder widely regarded as one of the best in his position in England.
Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City have all been credited with interest in varying degrees over recent months. Arsenal’s Andrea Berta identified central midfield as a summer priority, and Tonali’s profile aligns closely with what Arteta wants: a physical, technically refined midfielder capable of anchoring the press while contributing in build-up play. On deadline day in the winter window, Tonali’s agent made contact with Arsenal before Newcastle blocked any exit, suggesting the player’s own camp is actively exploring options.
The complication for Arsenal specifically is budget. Reports in March suggested the club had limited funds available, potentially as low as £40 million for the summer after last year’s enormous outlay on players including Gyokeres, Eze and Madueke. A fee anywhere near £100 million for Tonali alone would require substantial sales first. Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli have both been identified as players who could leave to raise funds, though selling either would be a significant decision in itself.
Manchester United’s case for Tonali rests partly on their expected return to Champions League football, which Romano has noted as a key factor in Tonali’s thinking. The midfielder wants to compete at the highest level, and United’s trajectory under Michael Carrick could make them an attractive option. A permanent move to an England rival, rather than a foreign club, sits uncomfortably with Newcastle, but the reality of their financial position means they will likely have to accept an offer once the right number arrives.
Tonali has been exceptional this season, registering three goals and seven assists across 47 appearances in all competitions. He extended his contract during his gambling ban period as a gesture of solidarity with the club and its supporters, a fact that has created genuine warmth between him and the Geordie faithful. The likelihood is that the summer will see him depart on good terms, with Newcastle using the proceeds to fund their own rebuilding project. The question of who lands him remains the most interesting subplot of the summer window.