Sandro Tonali’s agent is set to hold discussions with Newcastle United in the coming weeks as the club look to clarify the 25-year-old’s long-term future. The Italian international, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan for £55m in summer 2023, has been a key figure in Eddie Howe’s midfield since completing his 10-month betting ban in August 2024. While Newcastle view Tonali as integral to their project and are keen to retain him, the player’s representatives have been contacted by both Juventus and Arsenal, prompting proactive talks to assess all options.
Tonali has started 18 of Newcastle’s 23 Premier League matches this season, averaging 2.3 tackles, 1.6 interceptions and 88% pass completion while contributing four goals and three assists. His seamless reintegration after the suspension has been widely praised, with Howe publicly describing him as “one of the best midfielders in the league” and a “massive part of what we’re building”. Newcastle’s contract with Tonali runs until summer 2028 with an option for an additional year, giving the club strong leverage and a valuation believed to start north of £80m for any potential sale.
Juventus Return and Arsenal Ambition
Juventus retain a strong emotional pull on Tonali, who came through their youth system before moving to Brescia and then Milan. The Turin club have monitored his progress closely since his Newcastle move and see him as a potential replacement for Manuel Locatelli or a partner for Teun Koopmeiners in a more dynamic midfield setup under Thiago Motta. Arsenal’s interest is more tactical: Mikel Arteta seeks additional depth and competition in central midfield, where Tonali’s ball-winning ability, passing range and leadership would complement Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard. The Gunners’ financial position allows them to meet Newcastle’s demands, though they would likely structure any deal with instalments and add-ons.
Newcastle’s position remains firm: they have no active intention to sell and would only consider offers that reflect Tonali’s importance to their Champions League qualification push. The club’s ownership continues to back Howe’s vision of building around young, high-potential British and European talents, with Tonali fitting that profile perfectly. However, the player’s camp has made it clear there is currently “no preference” between staying at St James’ Park, returning to Juventus or exploring a move to Arsenal — a stance that keeps all parties engaged without committing to any path.
Market Reaction and Valuation Pressure
Betting markets have responded to the renewed speculation, with odds shortening on Tonali leaving Newcastle this summer. Juventus are slight favourites among overseas options, while Arsenal trail closely behind Newcastle retention. The latest Sandro Tonali next club odds reflect divided sentiment: confidence in his staying power has drifted, but the high £80m+ valuation acts as a deterrent to all but the most determined suitors. Newcastle’s financial headroom under PSR means they are under no immediate pressure to sell, strengthening their negotiating position.
Tonali’s post-ban resurgence has restored his status as one of Europe’s most promising midfielders. His composure, work rate and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset in any top-tier system. For Newcastle, retaining him supports their long-term ambition; for Juventus, his return would be a statement of intent; for Arsenal, he represents high-quality depth with resale potential. The agent talks with Newcastle will likely serve as a benchmark-setting exercise rather than an immediate trigger for movement, but the summer window promises to be pivotal for one of the Premier League’s standout midfield stories.
Strategic Crossroads Ahead
The discussions represent an early but significant moment in Newcastle’s summer planning. Retaining Tonali would maintain midfield continuity and send a strong message about the club’s direction; a sale — particularly to a Premier League rival — would generate substantial funds but risk weakening a key area. Tonali himself appears content at St James’ Park but open to the right opportunity, whether a return to Italy or a step up in England. With no pressing need to move and multiple high-profile suitors, his future remains one of the more intriguing subplots heading into the transfer window, balancing sporting ambition, financial strategy and personal ambition.