Sandro Tonali could be one of the biggest stories in midfield in the Premier League this summer, but Newcastle United have no intention of letting him leave lightly.
According to Football Insider, the Magpies are asking for more than £80 million if any club wants to sign the Italian midfielder at the end of the season.
Arsenal are monitoring the situation closely, while Manchester United are also looking to rebuild their midfield, and there is a strong possibility that they will.
Tonali’s future at St James’ Park looks uncertain, mainly because Newcastle’s season has not gone as expected.
Football Insider reports that the club missed out on European contention, which opened the door to speculation about some of their most valuable players.
Sandro Tonali is an important player for Newcastle United
Tonali has been extremely important for Newcastle this season. The 26-year-old has made 52 appearances in all competitions, showing how much faith Eddie Howe had in him.
That’s why Newcastle’s £80m stance makes sense. Tonali is not a fringe player they are looking to move forward with.
He is a central figure in midfield and his contract runs until 2029, with an option for another year, giving Newcastle a good negotiating position.
Just because big clubs are getting involved doesn’t mean they have to accept reduced deals.
Tonali would be an attractive option for Arsenal. Mikel Arteta’s side already have a strong midfield but are looking for more control, depth and versatility.
Tonali plays as a deep midfielder, able to press aggressively, carry the ball forward and dictate the tempo. He’s not just a defensive midfielder or just a passer, he gives you a little bit of everything.
Arsenal face Manchester United
Man United’s interest is equally understandable. United need legs, discipline and quality in the middle of the pitch.
With Casemiro leaving the club this summer, the club needs a midfielder who can adapt to the intensity of the Premier League and improve their build-up play. Tonali will give them bite, experience and technical safety.
The problem, of course, is the price. Even for Arsenal and United, £80m is a lot of money.
Newcastle may need to manage their financial rules carefully and some reports suggest a big sale could help them comply, but that doesn’t mean they’ll sell cheaply.
Newcastle should only sell if the funds allow for a major rebuild. Tonali is too important to lose for anything other than premium pricing.
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