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‘England really calling’ – Newcastle United frontrunners for Tonali replacement

Lorenzo Pellegrini

Rome, Italy 22th January 2026: Lorenzo Pellegrini of A.S. Roma during the UEFA Europa League 2025-26 football match between AS Roma vs VFB STUTTGART at the Olimpico Stadium

Earlier this week, Sport Witness covered claims from Calciomercato about Lorenzo Pellegrini’s interest in a move to Newcastle United.

The outlet revealed the Magpies’ liking for the Italian, with the midfielder seeing a switch to St James’ Park as perfect for his skillset. He likes to operate in a midfield three and Eddie Howe’s side use a setup like that regularly.

Pellegrini’s current contract at AS Roma runs out in the summer transfer window. There have been no signs that a renewal is on the way, giving suitors a chance to take advantage of the situation.

Talk around Newcastle United is now growing, with an exit from Rome a clear possibility.

Pellegrini seen as Newcastle’s Tonali replacement

RomaGiallorossa report that Eddie Howe’s side are frontrunners to sign the Italy international. The outlet offer confirmation that West Ham have made enquiries in the past but St James’ Park is a more likely destination.

Newcastle United see Pellegrini as a possible replacement for Sandro Tonali, who has been linked with an exit. The 29-year-old’s technical ability appeals to many and that is why he is viewed as a readymade solution.

Napoli have previously been interested in Pellegrini but they haven’t made any moves in recent weeks. Now, ‘England is really calling’ and the Premier League is a likely destination.

Roma still dithering on renewal

Lorenzo Pellegrini

9th Nov 2025; Olimpico Stadium, Rome, Italy; Serie A Enilive Football Match; Roma versus Udinese; Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma

In the meantime, Roma are unsure about handing the midfielder a new deal.

While Pellegrini is seen as the club’s hometown hero, the Giallorossi have to consider the economics of the deal. They do not want to get lost in emotion and make decisions on the basis of nostalgia.

That is why considerations are being made about whether it is worth keeping Pellegrini beyond the season. He earns €6m per season right now, which isn’t a low amount for Roma by any means.

Pellegrini has played 16 times in Serie A, scoring three times. The versatile player has added value to the side, despite initially being on the peripheries of the side. He’s also settled into Gian Piero Gasperini’s high-octane setup despite fitness worries.

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