£80m Newcastle star prefers Italy return over Arsenal move

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Newcastle United are resigned to losing Sandro Tonali this summer but have set an £80 million asking price for the Italian midfielder, creating a significant obstacle for potential suitors including Arsenal.

The 25-year-old has been instrumental for the Magpies over the past two seasons, missing just four Premier League matches despite serving a ten-month betting ban that interrupted his progress after joining from AC Milan for £55 million in 2023.

Since returning from suspension at the start of last season, Tonali has helped Newcastle secure the Carabao Cup and Champions League qualification, performances that have attracted attention from several top clubs.

Arsenal were linked with a shock deadline day move for the midfielder earlier this season, while Manchester United have also expressed interest as they seek midfield reinforcements. However, according to talkSPORT, Tonali’s preference is actually a return to Serie A rather than joining either Premier League giant.

Financial barrier to Italy return

Newcastle’s £80 million valuation makes a return to Italy extremely unlikely, with Serie A clubs typically unable to compete with Premier League spending power. This leaves Arsenal and Manchester United as the most realistic destinations if Tonali does leave St James’ Park.

The hefty price tag raises questions about whether either club would be willing to invest such a sum in a midfielder entering his prime years, particularly given their existing squad compositions.

Tactical concerns raised

England legend Chris Waddle has questioned whether Arsenal truly need Tonali, suggesting the Italian is too similar to current Gunners midfielder Declan Rice.

“He’s a very similar player to Declan Rice, though. Do Arsenal really need another player like that? I know squads strengthen every year and that’s how football moves on,”

Waddle told FootballTransfers, describing Tonali as “a very economical player” with “a good shot and engine” but questioning the tactical logic of the potential acquisition.

Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has encouraged his old club to pursue Tonali, praising the midfielder’s understanding of his role and passing ability. United have been linked with several Premier League midfielders including Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba over recent months.

With Newcastle’s high asking price and Tonali’s apparent preference for Italy creating complications, the summer transfer window promises to be decisive in determining the midfielder’s future. The financial realities may ultimately force him to consider Premier League options despite his personal preferences.