Chelsea ‘join Sandro Tonali transfer chase’ with Arsenal and third team | Football | Sport

It was claimed that Tonali’s representatives offered him to Arsenal, who were looking to bolster their midfield ranks ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline – something the Italian’s agent denied. Newcastle were unwilling to entertain the prospect of losing Tonali, given the proximity to the window slamming shut, but it appears talk of a move away from St. James’ Park is unlikely to dwindle.

Arsenal are said to have been long-time admirers of Tonali and could be tempted into a move for the ex-AC Milan in the summer transfer window, when Newcastle have a little longer to plot their next move. They aren’t alone though, given Chelsea are being touted as a potential suitor as well.

That’s according to The Sun, who claim Chelsea have been monitoring Tonali’s situation on Tyneside closely. The outlet suggests that Tonali isn’t itching to get away from St. James’ Park, and after recently welcoming a baby boy with his partner, is settled in the North East.

What’s more, Manchester City are also credited as having an interest, with Pep Guardiola said to have been charmed by the anchorman. It isn’t thought that Newcastle will stand in the way of Tonali, should he wish to leave, and with just over two years left on his contract, the 2025 League Cup winners could be forced into a sale.

Tonali joined Newcastle in 2023 for a whopping £55million, but was swiftly handed a 10-month betting ban shortly after his arrival. Tonali isn’t believed to be looking to follow in the footsteps of former team-mate Alexander Isak, who went on strike to secure a move away from Newcastle last summer.

However, there is a growing feeling that Newcastle might not be able to match Tonali’s lofty ambitions, with the 25-year-old keen to be winning trophies on a consistent basis. Tonali was part of the team that guided Newcastle to their first piece of silverware in close to 55 years, as well as helping Eddie Howe’s side back into the Champions League.