Sandro Tonali's Next Move: Seven Clubs Battle for Star Midfielder's Signature
The representative of Sandro Tonali has been quite active in recent weeks. Following reports of offering his player to a Premier League competitor and subsequently refuting such claims, he went on to question the Italian midfielder's long-term commitment at Newcastle United.
"Newcastle are finding it difficult to part ways with Sandro, and he is determined to guide the club into the Champions League," stated Tonali's representative, Giuseppe Riso. "These transfer conversations will happen at a later stage. We'll observe how this season concludes and then make our decision. We'll assess the situation and determine our course of action during the summer."
Being among the finest defensive midfielders globally, there will undoubtedly be numerous interested parties this summer should Tonali seek to leave Tyneside. Newcastle seem very unlikely to achieve Champions League qualification, which only increases the likelihood of his potential departure.
But which destination might Tonali consider amid the expected surge of transfer speculation?
7. Liverpool
Liverpool's tense yet eventually successful discussions with Newcastle regarding Alexander Isak last summer indicate they're unlikely to pursue Tonali's services. Nevertheless, this doesn't mean they should overlook the 25-year-old midfielder.
The Reds may have invested nearly £450 million last summer, with almost a third allocated to Isak, but they remain short-handed in central midfield positions. Ryan Gravenberch stands as their sole elite defensive midfielder, though his performances have declined due to excessive playing time this season.
Alexis Mac Allister's regression also highlights Liverpool's requirement for midfield strengthening, making Tonali an excellent acquisition. A sophisticated yet aggressive player with Premier League knowledge, despite his transfer fee likely reaching approximately £100 million.
6. Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain already possess one of Europe's most sought-after midfield units. Vitinha stands as arguably the premier midfielder globally, João Neves represents exceptional talent, Fabián Ruiz displays wonderful technical ability, and Warren Zaïre-Emery is experiencing an outstanding season.
Adding Tonali to their abundant central midfield options seems unnecessary, yet despite moving away from their 'Galactico' approach, they continue to be associated with Europe's top performers.
PSG undoubtedly possess the financial resources to complete such a transfer, and Tonali would be assured of the Champions League participation and trophies he seeks in Paris.
5. Manchester United
Manchester United's need for midfield reinforcements this summer is well-documented. Casemiro's expected departure at season's end only amplifies their requirement for additional personnel and quality in midfield, particularly with the possible increased demands of Champions League participation next term.
Could their headline acquisition be Carlos Baleba? Elliot Anderson? Maybe Adam Wharton? The Red Devils would be foolish to overlook another Premier League midfield star, as Tonali provides the combination of elegance, determination, and skill that United desperately require.
Questions surrounding United's managerial future complicate their transfer planning currently, but Tonali represents the type of midfielder any world-class coach would value. He could prove to be a game-changing addition at Old Trafford.
4. Juventus
An Italian return remains possible for Tonali, who allegedly desires to return to his native country. Tyneside cuisine hardly compares to the fresh pasta and arancini available in Italy's town squares, and Juventus could capitalize on the midfielder's longing for familiar surroundings.
The Turin giants have been revitalized by Luciano Spalletti's appointment as manager—a coach who previously worked with Tonali during his national team tenure. The former Milan star was described as "magnificent" by Spalletti, leaving little doubt about his desire for a Turin reunion.
Financial constraints present the primary challenge, however, as Juventus likely cannot generate the necessary funds for completion. Italian clubs continue struggling to match the spending power of Spanish and English giants, with Tonali potentially another casualty of being financially out of reach.
3. Real Madrid
Significant gaps left by Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić in Real Madrid's midfield still need addressing. Los Blancos are anticipated to tackle this specific problem this summer when possible, with Tonali potentially among their recruitment targets.
Federico Valverde's disappointing performances this season have further weakened a midfield lacking genuine quality beyond the attacking midfielder role, making a new defensive midfielder—along with other reinforcements—essential for Madrid to reclaim their European dominance.
Tonali could certainly fulfill that requirement. While not purely a defensive destroyer, he's more than capable of being disruptive when needed, combining this ability with excellent passing range and relentless work rate.
2. Manchester City
Manchester City's 2024–25 struggles were blamed on Rodri's injury absence and, despite the Spaniard's comeback, there's a feeling the club requires another elite midfielder. The 29-year-old has found it difficult to replicate his Ballon d'Or-winning displays as fitness issues become more common, with ongoing speculation linking the City star to Real Madrid before summer.
Nico González provides defensive stability in midfield when Rodri is sidelined but lacks his countryman's technical refinement. Tijjani Reijnders possesses elegance but misses the physical presence required for the defensive midfielder position.
City require someone excelling in both aspects, and few complete holding midfielders surpass Tonali. Pep Guardiola's team would immediately improve with his addition, and financial considerations would pose no obstacle to a potential transfer.
1. Arsenal
Tonali's reported potential departure during the January transfer window specifically connected him with Arsenal. Whether this represented mere agent speculation or genuine Gunners interest remains uncertain, but they're considered among the Italian's potential destinations when summer arrives.
Arsenal possess strong midfield depth, particularly following the summer signing of the outstanding Martín Zubimendi, but establishing a dynasty under Mikel Arteta requires multiple world-class central midfield options.
Tonali would provide versatility for the north London club. While he would excel in Zubimendi's position, he could equally cover Declan Rice's role, further enhancing Arsenal's squad depth across a well-balanced team.