Arsenal edge closer to Sandro Tonali transfer amid ‘dream’ Newcastle development
Arsenal have just received a huge boost in their transfer pursuit of Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali.
Mikel Arteta and Co. were desperately trying to strengthen their squad in the final hours of the January transfer window, and the Italian emerged as a last-minute target for them on deadline day.
Arsenal saw an approach for Tonali knocked back by Newcastle, who had no intention of losing one of their key midfielders with effectively no time to secure a replacement before the window slammed shut.
Eddie Howe’s side stood firm in their resolve on that occasion, but the Gunners are sure to be licking their lips at this development regarding the 25-year-old’s future.
Newcastle demands eliminate hope of Juventus transfer
Football Insider revealed last weekend that Tonali could demand a move away from Newcastle this summer, as the Magpies could experience a similar situation to the one they endured with Alexander Isak.
Clubs are beginning to circle around the midfielder after Arsenal’s recent advancement, with Juventus also hugely keen on him, and Manchester City also showing an interest.
Juventus have been desperate to bring Tonali back to Serie A in the summer, but their hopes of landing the Newcastle star are now seen as little more than a “dream,” according to Tutto Sport.
The Magpies’ demands are understood to have “scared” the Italian giants, who have already accepted that it will be “very difficult” for them to compete with Arsenal to secure a deal.
Juventus are turning their attention towards Atalanta midfielder Ederson instead, a move which has surely now put Arsenal firmly in the box seat to seal the transfer.
The Premier League leaders have effectively edged closer to getting their man, with their main competitors seemingly resigned to failure in their pursuit.
Sandro Tonali to choose Arsenal move over Man City
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is a big fan of Tonali, and that appears to be what is fuelling his team’s interest in a transfer.
However, at the moment, a switch to North London would surely be the more favourable option for the Newcastle man, given the uncertainty surrounding the manager at the Etihad Stadium.
There is still consistent talk that Guardiola could be about to leave City at the end of the season, which is sure to put Tonali off the idea of joining, given that he may not know who will be in charge.
Both Arsenal and City will be able to offer Champions League football next term, and Tonali may have to compete with 2024 Ballon D’Or winner Rodri for a place in the side if he opted for City.
Throw in the fact that Arsenal could potentially have a league title behind them by that stage as well, and they are surely the more appealing option for a move.