Newcastle have made their position clear on Sandro Tonali as Manchester United and Chelsea step up their interest in the Italian midfielder. Despite reports of a nine-figure price tag, the Magpies are adamant that the former AC Milan star is a vital part of their project. St James’ Park chiefs are desperate to avoid a repeat of the Alexander Isak saga that rocked the club last year.
Newcastle’s firm ‘not for sale’ stance
Newcastle have moved decisively to shut down mounting speculation regarding the future of their star midfielder. Despite a blizzard of transfer stories suggesting that the Italian could be heading for a high-profile exit this summer, the club has firmly rejected the narrative that they are a “selling club” vulnerable to predatory moves from Premier League rivals. Rumours suggesting that the Magpies have slapped a £100 million price tag on the player have been dismissed as inaccurate, INews reports with senior figures at St James’ Park maintaining both in public and private that he is simply not for sale.
The club are currently navigating a difficult transition season, but they remain steadfast in their commitment to the 25-year-old. Newcastle’s hierarchy views Tonali as a cornerstone of their long-term vision, and they are unwilling to entertain offers regardless of the figures involved. This hardline stance is seen as a critical test of the club’s authority, especially as they look to move past recent missteps and establish themselves as a consistent force at the top of English football.
Man Utd and Chelsea on high alert
While Newcastle remain defiant, their rivals appear to be positioning themselves for a potential summer battle. Manchester United have reportedly included Tonali on a “long list” of potential replacements for the veteran Casemiro. Meanwhile, Chelsea are said to have received “encouragement” regarding a possible move for the Italy international. For the London club, Tonali is viewed as a high-quality alternative to other targets, such as AZ sensation Kees Smit, who coincidentally is also on Newcastle’s radar.
The Magpies are acutely aware of the “Isak factor” looming over these negotiations. The club’s inability to persuade star striker Isak to stay last summer was a significant blow that put the hierarchy on the back foot in terms of squad retention. There is a determination within the club to ensure Tonali does not tread a similar path. The emergence of these transfer links, which began with a deadline-day claim that he had been offered to Arsenal – a claim described by those in the club as a “total non-starter” – suggests that rival clubs believe Newcastle might be forced to sell to satisfy financial regulations.
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