Newcastle United have been dealt a fresh setback with the revelation that star midfielder Sandro Tonali is eyeing a return to Italy.
Tonali is expected to take centre stage alongside [Lucas Paqueta’s](https://www.claretandhugh.info/lucas-paqueta-bio/) best mate Bruno Guimarães in a formidable midfield against West Ham in three days. And with a Cup final for the Toon on the horizon, news that he wishes to leave the North East couldn’t have come at a worse time for The Magpies.
One of his representatives, Marianna Mecacci of GR Sports, has confirmed that the 24-year-old intends to leave Tyneside at some point. Since arriving in a £60 million move from AC Milan in 2023, Tonali has been a key figure in Eddie Howe’s squad, despite his debut season being disrupted by a 10-month betting ban. However, his future at St. James’ Park now appears uncertain.
Tonali previously admitted that departing Milan was a tough decision, and speculation has long suggested he was reluctantly sold when Newcastle came knocking. His impressive recent form will only make this latest development harder for Toon fans to swallow, especially with a crucial [Premier League](https://www.claretandhugh.info/premier-league-bio/) fixture against West Ham up next.
With Newcastle’s focus likely shifting towards their upcoming Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, Monday’s trip to the London Stadium could become an unwelcome distraction. The squad is already under strain, with Lewis Hall injured and Antony Gordon suspended, leaving Howe with a selection headache.
Hopefully, Graham Potter’s Irons side could seize the advantage, with the Magpies’ growing issues playing into their hands