Sources: Man City in race to sign Newcastle star after confirmed talks
Man City are set to register their interest in signing Newcastle star Sandro Tonali if he is open to leaving St James’ Park this summer.
Tonali has been a key asset to Newcastle for several seasons now since a big-money move to Tyneside from AC Milan in 2023.
The 25-year-old featured 45 times last term as the Magpies finished fifth in the top-flight, and has continued to be an important player this season, with four assists in 36 appearances so far.
Football Insider revealed last month that Chelsea were eyeing a move for Tonali to bolster their midfield ranks, but they instead prioritised other positions in the winter window.
Arsenal then reportedly pursued a deal for Tonali on Deadline Day, and as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, City could also join the race for his services in the summer.
Man City could explore Tonali move this summer
Tonali’s agent reportedly held talks with Arsenal, but a deal never materialised so late in the January window, with Newcastle completely unwilling to let him leave.
Pep Guardiola was spotted in deep conversation with the Italy midfielder after the Magpies’ Carabao Cup loss to City in midweek, and they could move to sign him this summer if he looks to leave St James’ Park.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “There’ll be lots more speculation in regards to Sandro Tonali. That news on Deadline Day was probably just the start of it.
“There has been constant rumours of a possible move away for Tonali, talk of going back to Italy with AC Milan, Juventus, talk of homesickness and all sorts as well.
“He had a great start to the season, maybe came off the boil a little bit in recent weeks, but he is still a key player for Eddie Howe’s side.
“Howe won’t want to lose Tonali, he’ll want to keep hold of him and build a side around him. He would be a huge loss to Newcastle if they were to lose him.
“I’m sure there are Premier League clubs who are monitoring his situation, Arsenal obviously were linked on deadline day.
“Manchester City are interested in Tonali as well, if there’s any indication he could be lured away from St James’ Park.”
Rodri exit could pave the way for City to sign Tonali
Rodri has been one of the best midfielders in the world over the last few years at Man City, but has been forced to deal with various injury concerns in recent times.
He has only made eight Premier League starts this season due to a hamstring problem, and Football Insider recently revealed that Man City are planning to sign a long-term Rodri replacement soon amid concerns about his recent injury history.
Sources have told Football Insider that Real Madrid are keen on signing Rodri this summer, with the Citizens potentially set to cash in before his contract expires in 2027.
Tonali would almost represent a like-for-like replacement for the Spaniard in midfield, and so Rodri’s departure could well pave the way for him to move to the Etihad Stadium.