Speculation that Sandro Tonali will leave Newcastle in the summer is continuing to grow after offering himself to Real Madrid.
The Italian midfield was the subject of surprising developments in the latter stages of the January window after his agent touted him with a potential move to Arsenal.
Nothing came of it, but it has sparked reports that Tonali is planting the seed to leave St James’ Park at the end of the season.
Sandro Tonali To Real Madrid?
Reports in Spain claim that the 25-year-old has advised his agent to hold talks over a potential move to Los Blancos in the summer.
At this stage, it’s unclear whether Real Madrid would entertain a move for Tonali, especially given the fact he’s likely to cost in the region of €90million.
Tonali still has over three years left on his contract with Newcastle, and therefore the club are in a healthy position when it comes to negotiating his transfer fee.
Real Madrid are supposedly in the market for a new central midfielder, with Jude Bellingham being their last significant investment in that area of the pitch.
The links with the Spanish giants are also further evidence that Tonali’s agent is attempting to manufacture his move out of the club.
Reporter David Ornstein cleared up some confusion over the Arsenal links last month, stating his agent had offered him to the league leaders, but the Gunners had made no contact.
Fabrizio Romano then added that Arsenal remain interested in a potential future transfer.
Newcastle supporters will feel frustrated with the latest developments surrounding the player’s future, especially after the club stood by him following his gambling ban.
Eddie Howe Discusses Tonali Future
Eddie Howe recently cast doubt on the player’s long-term future by saying a move could be out of his control.
Although he was eager to reiterate that Tonali is “very happy” to be a Newcastle player.
He said: “As far as I’m aware though we’ve got a player that’s an outstanding footballer, an outstanding person.
“Sandro’s very happy here. He’s got a great relationship with me and his teammates and he seems really, really, happy within himself. I don’t see an issue, but I’m not in control of everything. If I knew where everything [rumours] came from I’d be wiser. But Sandro is absolutely fine. I had discussions with him yesterday. His focus is on the here and now with us.
“There’s no issue with Sandro. He’s happy and committed. But our best players will always be attracting glances from other clubs – that’s just the reality of football.”
Newcastle will be looking to bounce back from their Carabao Cup disappointment against Brentford at the weekend and Tonali is involved in the best bet builder for the contest.
