Exclusive: Chelsea set sights on Sandro Tonali deal
Chelsea are closely monitoring Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, sources have told Football Insider.
The London giants have a firm interest in the 25-year-old as they explore the market for proven Premier League midfielders.
Sources say Chelsea are interested in Tonali for the summer of 2026 rather than in the current January transfer window.
The Italy international has a contract with the Magpies that runs until the summer of 2029, after Tonali put pen to paper on a new Newcastle contract.
Chelsea set sights on Sandro Tonali signing
Chelsea’s interest in Tonali comes as they aim to bolster their options, amid concerns about the depth behind their current trio of Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.
Behind their midfield three, there is a feeling that the current option Andrey Santos could be improved upon, while Romeo Lavia’s injuries are a major concern.
As a result, Tonali has emerged as a key contender given his Premier League experience, while he has been at the top of his game so far this season.
However, Newcastle are hopeful of keeping Tonali, and feel they should be rewarded with his loyalty after sticking by him during his lengthy betting suspension.
As a result, it may be difficult for the Blues to pull off a deal unless they can place big money on the table to lure him away from St James’ Park.
Chelsea set sights on Eddie Howe to replace Enzo Maresca
Tonali is not the only Newcastle man being linked with the switch to Stamford Bridge, as Football Insider exclusively revealed Chelsea have sounded out Eddie Howe.
The London giants are exploring the market for a replacement for Enzo Maresca, who left Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day.
Maresca’s departure from Stamford Bridge came against a backdrop of frustration with the ownership, who he felt were too involved in his decision-making.
Howe, 48, is firmly on Chelsea‘s radar although it remains to be seen if he would leave Newcastle mid-season to join a club where managers have a notoriously short shelf life.
Chelsea’s interest comes at a time when Howe is being criticised by a section of Newcastle fans on social media for overseeing a mixed campaign at St James’ Park.
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