Sandro Tonali is linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer (Image: Mattia Osbot – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Newcastle United bosses insist they have full control over Sandro Tonali’s future ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. Manchester United are reported to be planning for a summer move, but St James’ Park bosses remain unconcerned by suggestions Tonali could leave at the end of the season.
The midfielder’s contract runs until 2028, with an option for a further year, meaning Newcastle can set whatever fee they see fit for the midfielder. Tonali’s current contract with the club has no release clause or special arrangements. The Chronicle reported that any suggestion that Newcastle would enter into a “gentlemen’s agreement” to leave the club at the end of the season if they fail to secure European football is “completely false”.
But the issue is that Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, has spoken openly about his client’s prospects of leaving the Magpies.
When asked about a possible move to Man City or Arsenal earlier this month, Riso said: “That was exactly the goal from the moment he went to England, to try to make him a star player.”
“I think he’s one of the most highly valued Italian footballers in the world. If he shines at the World Cup, will City or Arsenal follow him? I don’t know, but it’s very likely.
“Everyone is looking forward to the World Cup and after that there are a thousand different scenarios that will unfold, but it all starts after the World Cup.”
Howe was quick to deny the rumors last week at Barcelona, saying: “The most important person is Sandro. All I’ve ever seen from him is a completely committed person.”
“Sometimes he’s very selfless. He’s not here for himself but for the team. Forget about the noise around him, he just gives his all.”
Howe is frustrated by persistent reports about key player departures and by branding Bruno Guimarães’ suggestion last week that he was in advanced talks with Manchester United as “disrespectful”.
Tonali remains under contract with the Magpies until summer 2028 (Image: Getty)
Howe is understood to have a similarly bleak view of reports linking Tonali with the Red Devils.
Newcastle have not made any offers for any players ahead of the summer transfer window, and it is claimed there are no arrangements in place for players to leave if they fail to qualify for Europe.
Tonali revealed earlier this month that he would like to consider joining Newcastle’s leadership group next season.
Asked if he wants to fill the void left by head coach Jamal Lascelles next season, Tonali told beIN SPORTS: “Yeah, definitely. We’re a little different because Jamal was a great leader.”
“He spoke to our team, all the players, every week, every game. He was great with everyone, he was alone in private meetings, but he was a little different than me.
“It might be a little difficult because it’s not my native language, but I’ll do my best. I’ll give it my all. I try to help every player on the pitch. And I think this should be for every player, not just me.”
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