Arsenal have been given a boost by Sandro Tonali as Newcastle reveal their stance on signing Tottenham behind the scenes.
Tottenham emerge as candidates for Sandro Tonali
Over Monday night, credible reports emerged confirming that Spurs are genuine candidates to sign Tonali this summer, as Roberto De Zerbi presses ahead with an ambitious move.
De Zerbi is thought to be personally backing the signing of the Italian, who is also from Brescia, and the Lilywhites manager has been fully backed so far this summer.
Spurs have already confirmed the arrival of Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers, and are in talks to sign Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke and Man City winger Sabinho.
Mikel Arteta’s English champions were linked with Tonali in January, with manager David Ornstein confirming at the time that the midfielder’s agent had contacted the Gunners about a possible move.
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Arsenal’s interest in Tonali has not disappeared since then, but the north Londoner now faces very stiff competition from his rivals.
The former AC Milan star is reportedly “ready” to join Spurs, according to Fabrizio Romano, with Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta potentially in contention, with Man City and Man United also previously linked.
Berta says Arsenal are ‘determined’ to sign £60m star after three years of negotiations
The Gunners held lengthy discussions with the camp.
Spurs are likely to be Arsenal’s main rivals in the race for Tonali, with City having their hands full with repeated bids for Elliott Anderson, while United appear to be eyeing Matheus Fernandes.
Interestingly, the Telegraph’s Luke Edwards claims the Magpies have a clear view on who they believe will ultimately be able to secure the 26-year-old’s signature.
Arsenal backed by Sandro Tonali, Newcastle make clear Tottenham stance
Indeed, according to Edwards, Newcastle are not at all convinced that Spurs are their biggest threat in the race for Tonali.
If anything, there is a growing belief within St James’ Park that Arsenal are truly a club to watch.
Newcastle are thought to be hoping to make an offer for him before the transfer window closes, with the club placing a huge valuation on the midfielder and a bid in the region of £100m required to even begin talks.
This figure reflects Tonali’s importance to manager Eddie Howe.
Since arriving in England, he has developed into one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders.
His ability to dictate play, break up opposition attacks and contribute in possession has made him a central figure in Newcastle’s project.
Tottenham have been linked with a possible move, but Newcastle are reported to think there is more to the rumors than meets the eye.
The Telegraph’s Edwards reports that there is a feeling at Newcastle that Spurs’ new relationship is simply a ploy to increase pressure on Arsenal to move, with Arteta’s side considered the clear favorites for Tonali within the club.
It is well documented that Arsenal have been looking to strengthen their midfield for many years.
The north London club are rumored to have some big names, including Ayyoub Bouadi, but Tonali certainly fits the profile of a player who can take Arteta’s side to another level.
But from Newcastle’s perspective, the message remains the same. Only a huge bid will convince them to do the deal.
Tonali is considered one of the pillars of the team and a player who can help the club compete at the highest level for many years to come.
Interested clubs will therefore need to make an extraordinary offer to test Newcastle’s resolve.
There is currently no evidence of a formal bid from Arsenal or Tottenham, but Newcastle believe Tonali could move to N5 if he leaves.
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