Newcastle United are preparing for a potentially intense summer transfer battle after placing a firm and significant valuation on midfield pillar Sandro Tonali.
With elite Premier League clubs monitoring his situation, the Magpies are determined to make it clear that any approach for the Italy international will come at a premium.
While the links generated plenty of noise, Newcastle were quick to shut down suggestions of active talks, insisting the midfielder was never available mid-season.
Summer interest expected to intensify in Tonali
According to The Sun, Arteta would love to pair Tonali with Declan Rice as part of a dominant midfield unit at the Emirates.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
From Newcastle’s perspective, there is no urgency or incentive to sell. Tonali is under contract until 2029, giving the club complete control over his future.
As a result, the Magpies are said to have set an asking price of at least £100 million, a figure designed both to reflect his importance and to deter speculative bids.
Despite the growing speculation, Tonali’s relationship with Newcastle remains strong.
The midfielder has spoken positively about the club’s backing during a difficult period following his betting ban, with Eddie Howe and the Newcastle hierarchy praised internally for their supportive approach.
That loyalty has helped Tonali re-establish himself both on and off the pitch, and he remains a popular figure within the squad.
However, sources suggest the 25-year-old is also ambitious. As a player who has competed at the highest levels in Italy and Europe, the pull of Champions League football and title contention could become increasingly influential.
AC Milan are reportedly positioning themselves to capitalise on Juventus’ ongoing contract impasse with Dušan Vlahović, with the Rossoneri exploring the possibility of landing the striker on a free transfer this summer.
According to Calciomercato, Milan have been monitoring the situation closely and believe conditions could soon align for a bold move involving one of Serie A’s most proven forwards.
Vlahović’s future at Juventus has been clouded for some time. Despite his status as one of the club’s marquee signings, negotiations over a contract extension have failed to progress, leaving the door open for rival clubs to sense an opportunity.
With time ticking down and no breakthrough in talks, Juventus risk losing a high-profile asset without a transfer fee.
AC Milan hold advantage due to Allegri
For AC Milan, the appeal is multi-layered. The San Siro side have long admired Vlahović’s profile and view him as a natural focal point for their attack.
There is also the prospect of reuniting the striker with Massimiliano Allegri, under whom Vlahović previously worked at Juventus.
That familiarity could ease the transition and help the Serbian rediscover peak form.
Premier League clubs remain interest in Vlahovic
The Premier League pair see the 26-year-old as a proven goalscorer capable of elevating their attacking options, though his salary demands are understood to be a key factor in any negotiations.
Newcastle & Chelsea face Premier League competition
Dusan Vlahovic reacts during Juventus vs Hellas Verona (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Despite that interest, sources in Italy suggest Vlahović may favour remaining in Serie A, where his game is well suited and his reputation already established.
A move within Italy could also offer continuity at a time when his recent seasons have been disrupted.
Injuries have limited Vlahović’s involvement this campaign, restricting him to just 13 league appearances so far.
Bruno Guimaraes has been exceptional for Newcastle United since joining the club, and he has been linked with a move away in recent seasons.
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has now suggested that the Brazilian could be on the move soon. He believes that Guimaraes will want to compete at the highest level and that the opportunity to join elite European clubs will be hard to pass up.
However, the German explained that the player is quite settled at Newcastle and would not be surprised if he decided to stay for a season or two.
A player of his quality will want to win major trophies regularly. Newcastle have an ambitious project, but they are not quite at that level yet.
Hamann on Bruno Guimaraes
Hamann said (h/t Chronicle Live): “Without a question, the best players want to play in the Champions League. Money is important too but it’s not the deciding factor. He will be getting paid well up in the North East.
“But the Champions League is the trophy along with the World Cup that all players want to win. If you’re not in the Champions League, you can’t win it, and every single Champions League club in England would be interested in Bruno Guimaraes if he decides that he can see himself elsewhere. The two Spanish giants would be interested too.
“I think Bruno can pretty much pick his club depending on how much Newcastle would want for him but he seems to be very settled in the North East.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he plays at least one more season or even a couple more seasons at Newcastle even if they don’t get into the Champions League.”
Bruno Guimaraes in action for Newcastle. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Newcastle are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and losing their best midfielder would be a huge blow. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the player to stay at the club for the foreseeable future.
Newcastle United and Aston Villa have submitted an offer to sign the Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen.
The talented young defender recently joined Real Madrid from Bournemouth, and the Spanish club has no intention of sanctioning his departure. They will not enter into negotiations with the English clubs, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle or Aston Villa move on to other targets.
Newcastle and Villa want Dean Huijsen
They could use a quality central defender, and they were preparing to spend €40 million (£34.5m) on the Spaniard, as per Fichajes. However, the 20-year-old is a key part of Real Madrid’s plans, and it is no surprise that they are not prepared to consider any move.
Aston Villa are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for players if they finish in the top four. However, Huijsen is unlikely to leave Real Madrid for them. They will have to look at other options as they look to tighten up at the back.
Newcastle are also looking to put together a formidable team. They need quality long-term alternatives to players like Dan Burn and Fabian Schar. There is no doubt that the Spanish defender would have been ideal for them, but the move seems unrealistic.
Dean Huijsen warming up (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Real Madrid are looking to build a team for the future, and they will not want to lose one of the most talented young defenders in Europe and football right now.
Newcastle and Aston Villa have exciting projects, and they will be attractive destinations for quality players in the summer. It remains to be seen whether they can plug the gaps in their defence and launch a strong push for trophies next season.
Sandro Tonali is once again emerging as a major talking point ahead of the summer transfer window, with several of the Premier League’s biggest clubs reportedly keeping a close watch on the Newcastle United midfielder’s situation.
According to The Sun, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Chelsea have all registered an interest in the Italy international, showing his growing reputation at the top level.
Tonali, 25, has steadily reasserted his value at Newcastle United, becoming a pillar of their midfield along with Bruno Guimaraes.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who is believed to be a long-time admirer.
Arsenal admire Newcastle midfielder Tonali
Reports suggest Arteta views Tonali as an ideal partner for Declan Rice, with the pair potentially forming a balanced and dynamic midfield core capable of competing at the highest level.
Arsenal were even alerted to the possibility of a move on Deadline Day, though the enquiry failed to develop into anything concrete.
Pep Guardiola is understood to be a strong admirer of Tonali’s game intelligence and positional discipline and along with his teammate Tino Livramento, the Spanish manager is keen on bringing the Newcastle duo to the Etihad Stadium.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Chelsea, meanwhile, are taking a more cautious approach. The Stamford Bridge club are monitoring Tonali’s situation as part of their midfield review but have yet to make any decisive moves.
Despite the mounting interest, Newcastle remain relaxed. Tonali is viewed as a central figure in the club’s long-term project, and there is no desire to part with him unless an extraordinary offer is presented.
A report from Fichajes has claimed that the Magpies have set an asking price of €80 million for the Italian midfielder.
Football pundit Paul Scholes has described the Newcastle United midfielder as a “brilliant” player.
The transfer window is now closed, so we’ve rounded up every single done deal by all 20 Premier League clubs over the last month.
It wasn’t the most memorable January transfer window, but read on for every done deal as there were some major deals done by the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham.
For City, it was a pretty exciting window as Pep Guardiola moved to bring in Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth after his terrific form there in the last year and a half or so.
Meanwhile, Marc Guehi also made the move to the Etihad Stadium to fill the void left by the injured Josko Gvardiol, meaning that long-running saga came to an end a little earlier than expected, with his Crystal Palace contract only a few months away from expiring anyway.
For Arsenal, it was mostly a window of exits, as Ethan Nwaneri joined Marseille on loan, while Oleksandr Zinchenko left for a permanent move to Ajax.
Elsewhere, Conor Gallagher was a big name arrival back to the Premier League, with the former Chelsea midfielder leaving Atletico Madrid after a year and a half to join Tottenham.
Read on for our full list of done deals from this transfer window…
Arsenal
IN
None
OUT
Osman Kamara – Blackburn, undisclosed
Oleksandr Zinchenko – Ajax, undisclosed
Louie Copley – Crawley, loan
Ethan Nwaneri – Marseille, loan
Maldini Kacurri – Grimsby, loan
Aston Villa
Tammy Abraham in action for Aston Villa (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
IN
Tammy Abraham – Besiktas, £18.2m
Alysson – Gremio, £10m
Brian Madjo – Metz, undisclosed
Leon Bailey – Roma, loan recall
Douglas Luiz – Juventus, loan
OUT
Louie Barry – Stockport, loan
Samuel Iling-Junior, Pisa, loan
Ben Broggio – Falkirk, loan
Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba – West Brom, loan
Evann Guessand – Crystal Palace, loan
Aidan Borland – Swindon, loan
Sil Swinkels – Chesterfield, loan
Donyell Malen – Roma, loan with £21.6m obligation to buy
Sandro Tonali’s agent has spoken out on the transfer rumours circulating about his client today as Arsenal and Chelsea are both linked with the Newcastle midfielder.
Tonali has shone during his time at St James’ Park and links with bigger clubs won’t come as too much of a surprise, though Arsenal’s interest did come slightly out of the blue earlier today.
The Italy international’s agent Beppe Riso has now addressed the speculation, denying any talks with Arsenal so far.
The Gunners could do with adding more depth to their midfield, and Tonali is the calibre of player who could surely challenge for a place in Mikel Arteta’s side.
Sandro Tonali transfer situation explained
Sandro Tonali arrives for a Newcastle game (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Still, for now it seems like the Arsenal links have been over-egged slightly, with the player’s agent playing the stories down.
Riso did suggest, however, that this could be something he and his client look at in March.
“We will evaluate in March whether Newcastle are open to anything, but right now he is playing in the Champions League, it is not the right moment to talk about it.”
Chelsea rival Arsenal for Sandro Tonali transfer
Meanwhile, Chelsea are now also being linked with Tonali by the Sun, who also mention Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as being an admirer of the 25-year-old.
It will be interesting to see how this pans out, but Tonali may well find it easier to get more playing time at Chelsea or City than at Arsenal.
Arteta already has Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, whereas Tonali could be an upgrade on the inconsistent Enzo Fernandez at Stamford Bridge, or the ageing and injury-prone Rodri at the Etihad Stadium.
David Ornstein has reported on Sandro Tonali and Arsenal after some surprise rumours doing the rounds earlier today.
Posting on X just moments ago, Ornstein confirmed that Arsenal explored a deal for Tonali after being offered the Newcastle United midfielder.
However, for now it looks like there hasn’t been any contact over this potential deal, which looks impossible for the final few hours of this transfer window…
? Sandro Tonali offered to Arsenal by agent so #AFC explored but no contact with Newcastle United; nothing will happen this window. 25yo’s camp put idea to Andrea Berta so looked into as per any player of interest. #NUFC exit now impossible @TheAthleticFChttps://t.co/Dj1rlbgFbH
Ornstein posted: “Sandro Tonali offered to Arsenal by agent so #AFC explored but no contact with Newcastle United; nothing will happen this window. 25yo’s camp put idea to Andrea Berta so looked into as per any player of interest. #NUFC exit now impossible”
Sandro Tonali Arsenal transfer could be one to watch for the future
Interestingly, Ornstein has made it clear that Tonali is a player of interest, so this perhaps means Arsenal will look again at the Italy international in the summer.
For now, this looks like an impossible deal, and one imagines Newcastle will not be at all keen on letting such an important player go.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action (Photo by Omar Havana/Getty Images)
Tonali has shone during his time at St James’ Park and it’s easy to see why a big name like Arsenal would be interested.
The Gunners just lost Mikel Merino to injury and lack much in the way of depth behind Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, so Tonali could be an ideal option.
Sandro Tonali exit would be a huge blow for Newcastle
Newcastle lost Alexander Isak in the summer so they surely won’t want another major saga like this in the months ahead.
The Magpies are building something very promising under Eddie Howe, having once again qualified for the Champions League last season, and making it into the knockout stages of this term’s competition.
Still, Arsenal are now favourites for the Premier League title and are closing in on a place in the Carabao Cup final, so it’s easy to see someone like Tonali viewing that as a step up.
Newcastle United have reportedly been offered the chance to bring Jhon Durán back to the Premier League before the transfer deadline, as intermediaries explore options for the forward’s future.
According to TEAMtalk, the Magpies are among several English clubs made aware of Durán’s availability amid uncertainty surrounding his current loan spell in Turkey.
The 22-year-old striker is currently on loan at Fenerbahçe from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, but the move has not gone entirely to plan.
Durán has managed just three goals in 10 league appearances, struggling to build momentum after missing nearly two months of the season through injury before returning in November.
That lack of rhythm has prompted discussions over a potential change of scenery before the window closes.
Newcastle United hold interest in Durán
Newcastle are understood to be monitoring the situation closely, with the club open to opportunistic additions if the right profile becomes available.
However, Premier League sides face stiff competition from France. Lille are currently regarded as frontrunners, with talks ongoing over a potential move to Ligue 1 ahead of the deadline.
Lille’s interest is said to be driven by their track record of developing young attackers and providing a platform for players to rediscover form.
According to Luke Edwards of the Telegraph, the Magpies see this story as “stupid” and “complete rubbish”, so that surely puts all that to bed.
See below for Edwards’ post on X, which came not that long after a surprise claim being made by Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg…
Newcastle United have described stories claiming Arsenal have made a late attempt to sign midfielder Sandro Tonali as “stupid” and “complete rubbish.” But other than that, it’s a good story. #nufc
Sandro Tonali to Arsenal transfer story from earlier today…
And see below for Plettenberg’s post about Arsenal exploring a Deadline Day move for Tonali, even if he added that it looked unlikely due to Newcastle not wanting to sell the Italy international and rejecting an initial approach…
?? EXCLUSIVE | Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro #Tonali.
It is worth noting that no other sources today have claimed Arsenal made any kind of contact over signing Tonali.
The Gunners may well have some kind of interest in Tonali, who is a top midfielder who’s proven himself in the Premier League.
Still, it’s also a position Arsenal have a lot of good options in, so it’s not clear the 25-year-old would definitely get a lot of opportunities to start games for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Could Newcastle struggle to keep Sandro Tonali?
Newcastle lost Alexander Isak to Liverpool in the summer when a big enough bid came in, so could we see something similar happen with Tonali in the near future?
Sandro Tonali looks on during Newcastle training (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Tonali has also seemed pretty happy with life at St James’ Park, and there doesn’t seem an obvious reason for him to give up on Eddie Howe’s promising project.
Still, similarly to Isak, if Tonali attracts interest from even bigger clubs then perhaps he’ll push for a move, and that would give Newcastle something to think about.
For now, there’s little sign of any of that happening.
Leicester City are exploring a move for Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles, as the Foxes look to inject leadership and defensive solidity into a season that has not gone according to plan, as reported by BBC.
With the club struggling to find consistency in the Championship, caretaker manager Andy King is understood to be pushing for reinforcements who can provide both immediate impact and dressing-room authority.
Lascelles is approaching the final months of his contract at St James’ Park and has long been expected to move on at the end of the season.
Leicester’s interest reflects a growing belief that experience, rather than youth alone, is required to arrest their slide and mount a credible push up the table.
Newcastle United defender is known for his leadership
Since arriving from Nottingham Forest in 2014, Lascelles has been a central figure in Newcastle’s modern history.
The 32-year-old has amassed 253 appearances for the club, captaining them through periods of transition, promotion battles, and their eventual re-establishment as a Premier League force.
His organisational skills, aerial strength, and no-nonsense defending have made him a respected figure on and off the pitch.
However, his role has diminished significantly this season under Eddie Howe.
With Newcastle investing heavily in their defensive unit and competition for places intensifying, Lascelles has been limited to just two Premier League appearances, totalling only 19 minutes of league action.
While still valued for his professionalism, he is no longer a regular part of Howe’s matchday plans.
Jamaal Lascelles, the man who stood up for Newcastle United in its hour of need.
Made captain aged 22. Lived the journey from the Championship to the Champions League.
Jamaal Lascelles of Newcastle United (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
For Leicester, the attraction is clear. The Foxes have lacked defensive stability and leadership during a turbulent campaign, and Lascelles’ profile fits the brief of a short-term solution.
Beyond his on-field attributes, his experience of promotion battles and high-pressure environments could prove invaluable to a squad attempting to rediscover belief.
Leicester view him as a potential organiser at the back, capable of helping younger defenders through difficult spells.
Rather than chasing potential alone, the Foxes appear focused on acquiring proven leadership to stabilise their season.
For Lascelles, a move could offer regular football and a fresh challenge.
Arsenal have emerged as surprise late-window admirers of Sandro Tonali, with reports suggesting the North London club have explored the feasibility of a Deadline Day move for the Newcastle United midfielder.
The development is reported by Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg, who indicated that while interest is genuine, the chances of a deal being completed remain extremely slim at this advanced stage of the transfer window.
Newcastle United have already rejected an initial approach, making their stance clear that Tonali is not for sale.
Arsenal’s enquiry is understood to be driven by fresh injury concerns in midfield, with Mikel Merino now expected to miss a significant period after suffering a suspected broken bone.
While the club have yet to confirm a definitive return date, early indications suggest the injury could sideline the Spaniard for an extended spell.
EXCLUSIVE | Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro #Tonali.
Arsenal are looking to add depth to their midfield
With Arsenal competing across multiple fronts, Mikel Arteta is eager to ensure his squad remains deep and versatile heading into the decisive phase of the season.
Merino’s injury has reduced options in central midfield, particularly in matches requiring control, intensity, and tactical discipline.
Tonali is viewed internally at Arsenal as a player capable of elevating their midfield immediately
His ability to dictate tempo, cover ground defensively, and contribute in possession makes him an attractive, albeit ambitious, target.
While Arsenal technically still have time to test Newcastle’s resolve with another approach, the likelihood of Tonali swapping St James’ Park for the Emirates before the deadline appears remote.
Newcastle United have been presented with a late opportunity to enter the race for Angel Gomes, with the Marseille midfielder emerging as one of the names being eyed by Premier League clubs.
Intermediaries have reportedly made contact with Newcastle United to outline Gomes’ availability, amid growing indications that Marseille would be willing to sanction a move before the deadline.
According to TEAMtalk, Gomes is open to a return to English football this month, viewing regular minutes as crucial to reviving his momentum at a pivotal stage of his career.
That ambition is closely tied to his international aspirations, with the midfielder eager to re-establish himself in the England picture ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle under Thomas Tuchel.
While the England international only arrived in France last summer following his departure from Lille, his role under head coach Roberto De Zerbi has diminished in recent weeks.
Angel Gomes wants more playing time
Despite his reduced involvement at Marseille, where he has featured for only brief cameos across recent Ligue 1 fixtures, Gomes’ quality remains highly regarded.
From Newcastle’s perspective, Gomes would represent a different midfield profile to many currently at Eddie Howe’s disposal.
He is a player who likes to keep possession, pass the ball around, bring others into the game and provie more control in the middle of the park.
While questions remain over how quickly he could adapt mid-season, the upside of a player with proven Ligue 1 pedigree is clear.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are believed to be advancing discussions, Newcastle are far from alone in monitoring the situation.
Angel Gomes on the ball in an England training session (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Everton, Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham, and Sunderland have all been alerted to his availability, showing the level of domestic interest surrounding the 25-year-old.
A January move back to England could provide the platform he needs to reset his career trajectory and Newcastle’s late involvement may yet add another compelling twist to a rapidly developing transfer story.
Howe would love to have a player like Gomes in the team. A midfield which is more based on strength due to the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali, Gomes could be the ideal player to complement them and provide more flamboyance.
A potential January exit for Brahim Díaz is emerging as a realistic scenario at Real Madrid, with the player’s limited involvement this season prompting renewed transfer discussions across Europe.
Opportunities have been hard to come by during the current campaign for the Morocco international.
Competition for places remains fierce, and Díaz has struggled to secure a consistent run of starts.
As a result, his representatives have begun exploring options elsewhere, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
England is viewed as the preferred destination should a winter move materialise, largely due to the promise of regular minutes and a more defined attacking role.
Real Madrid are firmly in the middle of a title race and are understandably reluctant to weaken their squad depth midway through the season.
However, they are not entirely opposed to a sale if their valuation is met. Madrid are seeking a fee in the region of €60 million.
Newcastle United need a versatile player like Díaz
Brahim Diaz in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Since returning from international duty at AFCON, his role has been even more limited, further fuelling speculation that a change of scenery may be in his best interests.
He is a versatile player that Eddie Howe would love at Newcastle United. His ability to play across the front line is something that the Magpies need.
His technical skill set, ability to operate in multiple attacking roles, and experience at the highest level make him an attractive proposition for the clubs looking to sign him.
Real Madrid’s stance will likely depend on timing and offers. Should the right bid arrive, a deal could suit all parties.
Brahim Diaz has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid in recent weeks.
The 26-year-old has struggled for regular opportunities under Alvaro Arbeloa, and he needs to move on in order to play more often.
Spurs and Villa keen on Brahim Diaz
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa would be willing to provide him with an exit route. They have already made enquiries about the availability of the Moroccan international. It remains to be seen whether they submit an offer for him in the coming days.
The 26-year-old is a versatile attacker who is capable of operating anywhere across the front three. He will add goals and creativity to the team.
Brahim Diaz in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Tottenham are in desperate need of more quality in the final third, and the Moroccan certainly fits the profile. He could be the ideal addition for them. They have missed a dynamic attacker like him since the departure of Son Heung-min.
The opportunity to join Tottenham will be exciting for the Moroccan as well. He will look to prove himself in the Premier League and play regularly with them.
On the other hand, Aston Villa have an exciting project. They are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they have a top-class manager like Unai Emery.
It will be interesting to see what the player decides if the two clubs come forward with an offer for him.
Meanwhile, the report claims that Newcastle United are also monitoring his situation and have contacted the player’s representatives to express their interest. They could use more depth in the final third, and the dynamic Moroccan could support the likes of Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga.
A late move in January is still very much possible, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Login
