Arsenal are preparing to intensify negotiations with Newcastle United for midfielder Sandro Tonali, despite reports the Italy international has already agreed personal terms with rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Newcastle have set an asking price exceeding €100 million (£85m) for the 24-year-old, with reports suggesting they recently turned down a £80m (approximately €92m) offer from Spurs. The Magpies’ firm stance indicates any successful deal will require a substantial financial commitment, potentially rising to £100m (€115m) should a bidding war develop.
North London rivalry heats up
While Tottenham appeared to be in pole position after Sky Sports UK and Sky Sport Italia reported that Tonali had accepted a contract worth over £275,000 per week, BBC Sport claims Arsenal have opened exploratory talks for both Tonali and his teammate Bruno Guimaraes. The Gunners are understood to be considering only one of the two midfielders, with formal negotiations for the Italian now imminent.
Sportitalia transfer expert Alfredo Pedulla suggests Tonali’s established rapport with Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi could prove decisive, though Arsenal’s emergence may yet complicate Spurs’ path to a deal. Manchester City and Manchester United have also been linked with the former Brescia star.
Financial implications for Milan
Tonali, who moved to St James’ Park from Milan for €60m in 2023, is understood to believe his tenure in the north-east has reached a natural conclusion. However, his departure would prove lucrative for his former club, as Milan negotiated a 10 per cent sell-on clause and would receive a significant portion of any transfer fee.
With personal terms reportedly settled at Tottenham but Arsenal now pressing for direct talks with Newcastle, the coming days are likely to prove crucial in determining the midfielder’s future. The Magpies’ reluctance to sell cheaply means any successful bid will need to meet or exceed their €100m valuation.