On deadline day, Sandro Tonali’s agent denied talk around Arsenal’s interest in the Newcastle United player. However, it was clear there was something brewing ahead of the summer.
Those rumours had emerged from the UK but Riso was quick to calm them, whilst addressing the endless Juventus claims.
Tonali has been key for Newcastle United this season. The midfielder has played 36 times across all competitions, mainly operating as a number six. At other times, he has also played as a number eight and he’s able to play several midfield roles for Eddie Howe.
Now, Riso has given another interview to TuttoSport. The agent has talked about Tonali’s future once again, and exit hints are apparent.
Reading between the lines, the Italian’s future may depend on Champions League football.
Newcastle United CL qualification is key
Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali
Milan, Italy 20.03.2025: Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali celebrates during the Uefa Nations League 2025. Italy vs Germany at Giuseppe Meazza stadium.
“Newcastle are having a hard time letting go of Sandro, and he wants to lead the club to the Champions League. These transfer discussions will take place later. We’ll see how the season ends and then we’ll decide what to do,” the agent said.
While that would come as a danger sign for the Magpies, Riso clarified there is no obvious destination yet.
“There’s no preference at the moment. It’s still early. What we’re saying today won’t apply tomorrow. Newcastle couldn’t let him go now, and there’s no point in moving, especially since Sandro is very attached to the club.
“We’ll evaluate and decide what to do in the summer.”
This suggests that Eddie Howe’s side can lose Tonali if they don’t qualify for the Champions League.
Sandro Tonali reaching peak years
Sandro Tonali
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – 10 DECEMBER, 2025: Sandro Tonali – UEFA Champions League, match Bayer 04 Leverkusen vs Newcastle United at BayArena.
At the same time, playing for a club like Juventus would make him a regular in the Champions League. The Bianconeri are in the top four this season and are also playing in the competition in the ongoing campaign.
At AC Milan, the midfielder was competing for Serie A regularly and played in the Champions League. He also won the Scudetto once under Stefano Pioli.
Considering that, it is easy to see why Tonali would want to play for a more established club in the competition, especially at 25-years-of-age. Everything can hinge on the finances, as Newcastle United’s price tag is likely to be high.