Sandro Tonali: Significant update on Newcastle transfer – expert
Newcastle United are unlikely to consider offers for Sandro Tonali in the January transfer window despite reports about a return to Italy.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Eddie Howe is keen to keep hold of the 24-year-old at least until the end of the season.
This comes after Football Insider revealed on 23 December that Newcastle will reluctantly consider offers at the end of the season – but will not let him leave in January.
Tonali has been heavily linked with a return to Italy, with Juventus interested in a move amid claims he is unhappy at St James’ Park after joining from Milan in 2023.
However, he has established himself as a regular fixture in Howe’s midfield three in recent weeks and has put together an impressive run of form.
He has appeared in 15 of their 17 league games so far this season, but has started just eight of those, including four of their last five.
The lack of guaranteed playing time has been a concern, leading to suggestions that they could cash in on his sale, but Howe is said to be keen to keep his squad together.
Eddie Howe makes Sandro Tonali exit decision at Newcastle
Brown explained that Newcastle are not looking to weaken their squad in January and are therefore unlikely to entertain offers for any first-team stars mid-way through the season.
As a result, the former scout, who has a wealth of experience working closely with players at the top level after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that a deal is unlikely to take place next month.
“From what I hear, I don’t think they’ll let him leave in January,” he told Football Insider.
“He had that long ban and picked up an injury, but he’s come back and he’s started to earn his place in the starting XI in recent weeks.
“He’s finally got back to full fitness, and seems to have hit a bit of form.
“He’s still very highly rated at Newcastle and by Eddie Howe, who has shown by starting him in the last few games that he’s still a big part of his plans.
“I’ve heard Howe is keen to keep most of this team together for the rest of the season.
“So in January, it would be a surprise to see him leave the club even if there is some interest from Italy.
“That might change at the end of the season, but for now, I’d expect him to stay.”
In other news, 32-year-old “will leave Magpies” as termination decision made.
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