Newcastle set £100m Tonali asking price as Man Utd rule out move and rivals circle

Newcastle United are preparing for the potential departure of Sandro Tonali this summer, with key figures at St James’ Park having expected the Italian to leave for several months and quietly identifying replacements during recruitment meetings since spring.

Tonali joined the Magpies from AC Milan in 2023 as Newcastle returned to the Champions League, and has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders alongside Bruno Guimarães. The club stood by him through a ten-month gambling ban, but with Newcastle having missed out on European football, interest from elsewhere has intensified.

Manchester United have formally ruled themselves out of the running. Despite their desire to strengthen in midfield, the Red Devils have informed Newcastle they will not pursue Tonali, citing the combined cost of the transfer fee and the player’s wage demands as prohibitive.

Tottenham have emerged as a surprise contender, with head coach Roberto de Zerbi said to be particularly keen. Arsenal, fresh from winning the Premier League, have also been credited with genuine interest, though the Gunners already have Declan Rice and Martín Zubimendi as central midfield options and are prioritising reinforcements in attack.

Manchester City remain in the picture as they navigate a new era following Pep Guardiola’s departure. They are searching for a long-term successor to Rodri, though it is unclear whether they will also pursue Elliot Anderson — a move now being discussed at a reported £120m.

Newcastle will not sell cheaply. Their asking price is understood to be around the £100m mark. The club’s need to raise funds through player sales has been partially eased by Anthony Gordon’s £70m move to Barcelona, giving them greater leverage in any Tonali negotiations.