Tonali's agent hints at Arsenal or Man City move as Newcastle brace for summer battle
Newcastle United are bracing for a summer of speculation around Sandro Tonali after his agent went public with comments that have not gone down well on Tyneside.
Riso tells Italian media the plan was always bigger than Newcastle
Speaking to Italian outlet Calcio E Finanza, Giuseppe Riso said the objective behind Tonali’s 2023 move from AC Milan was to “try to make him a star player” and described the 25-year-old as “the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world.”
Riso explained that Newcastle’s financial resources and the Premier League’s global profile made the transfer logical, but his language suggested the club was always part of a bigger plan rather than the final stop.
“The idea was to take him to a higher-level league,” Riso said, adding that a strong showing at the 2026 World Cup could open the door to a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Arsenal and City circle as Bernardo Silva heads for the exit
Arsenal and Manchester City have both been linked with the Italy international. Arsenal reportedly showed interest in the winter window and, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, are considered the “most likely destination.” Reports in England have suggested the Gunners could table a bid in the region of 86m this summer.
City, meanwhile, are eyeing midfield reinforcements as they face the prospect of losing Bernardo Silva on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the season. Rodri’s injury record has added to the urgency. Newcastle would want north of 100m if they were to let Tonali leave to a direct rival.
Tonali’s season in numbers
Tonali has made 26 Premier League appearances this season, contributing two assists, and has added an assist from eight Champions League outings. His performances have improved significantly since returning from a 10-month ban for breaching Italian gambling regulations, and Riso praised the support Tonali received from Newcastle’s fanbase during that period.
“The fans were incredible,” Riso said, contrasting it with the treatment Tonali received in Italy during the ban.
Newcastle hold firm but frustration grows behind the scenes
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has publicly insisted Tonali is happy at the club, and sources close to the player suggest he wants to be part of the leadership group at St. James’ Park. But Riso’s interview has fuelled frustration behind the scenes, with some at the club feeling the agent is positioning Tonali for a move away.
Tonali is under contract until 2029 with an option to extend to 2030, which gives Newcastle a strong negotiating position. Whether that is enough to keep him depends on what happens when the window opens.
