Revealed: Newcastle United set for £7m blow if Sandro Tonali is banned
Sandro Tonali is still set to receive his £7million wages at Newcastle United if handed a ban for betting breaches, Football Insider can reveal.
The 23-year-old midfielder faces a possible 12-month ban if found guilty of illegal betting in Italy.
Reports in Italy state that Tonali has admitted to betting on AC Milan games while representing the Serie A side as a player.
Newcastle published a club statement addressing the situation on Wednesday (18 October), confirming that Tonali is subject to investigation by the Italian Prosecutor's Office and Italian Football Federation.
Tonali only moved to Newcastle this summer after the Magpies struck a £55million deal with Milan.
He signed a five-year contract at St James’ Park and The Times reports that his wage is £140,000 per week, making him one of the top earners at the club.
If Tonali is punished with a year-long ban, Newcastle are set to still pay his full £7million-a-year wage packet.
Brentford were put in a similar position with striker Ivan Toney earlier this year, and the Bees have continued to pay his wages with the only other option being a full termination of the contract.
After signing Tonali just months ago, Newcastle don’t see the termination of Tonali’s contract as a realistic option.
Therefore, the wage bill at Newcastle is set to be inflated by Tonali’s pay despite the midfielder not being available for selection for an entire year.
Tonali is available to play for Newcastle this weekend in the Premier League, but the Daily Mail reports that any possible punishment could arrive as soon as next week.