Manchester City want to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, and Tonali is “seriously considering” the move, according to TEAMTalk.
Manchester United, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur have all been linked with the 26-year-old Italian, who now seems certain to leave Newcastle.
Newcastle are expected to demand around £100m for the star.
Man City “Confident” of Landing Tonali
TEAMTalk says that Man City are “undeterred” by Newcastle’s valuation and are “increasingly confident” of landing Tonali.
Tonali has the summer to consider his options after Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup, and he is not short of offers.
Past reports indicate that he would prefer a return to Italy, but it is thought that no top Italian club would be able to afford the asking price.
Man City are the ones with the financial clout to land him, and Tonali is rumoured to be “impressed” by the project at the Etihad.
TEAMTalk reports that Tonali and his representatives were “particularly impressed” by what City could offer the midfielder.
That includes their vision for his role in the team, and the “support structure” available to Tonali and his family.
If he does move to the Etihad, he could be reunited with a former teammate.
Man City are pursuing former Newcastle midfielder Elliot Anderson, but have already had bids – including one of £120m – turned down by Nottingham Forest.
But they are expected to secure the signing, with Fabrizio Romano saying on X that the deal is in its “final stages”.
TEAMTalk say that City think Tonali and Anderson will “compliment each other” in midfield. City are also expecting departures, which could clear the way for new additions.
Where Does This Leave Newcastle?
Newcastle do not want Tonali to leave. He is one of their most important players, and they believe they have a strong hand to play.
Tonali is contracted until 2029, and the Magpies are adamant that they will not accept less than £100m for him.
But a lack of European football is one of the factors that could push Tonali towards the exit, along with Newcastle’s need to stay within the SCR rules.
Whatever happens, Newcastle will want the situation resolved quickly so that they can make plans.
They have seen their move for Victor Muñoz hijacked by Liverpool, and don’t want to risk missing out on other targets.
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Caroline Dowse
Aspiring football journalist, and Newcastle United fan, although I also write about Peterborough United. I write for Vital Football and The Lower Tiers, and I live just outside Peterborough with two bossy cats