£155k/wk Newcastle star tells club he wants to leave this summer

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United squad could be dealt a significant blow this summer, with reports suggesting that Sandro Tonali—one of the club’s most admired players—is considering an early departure.

The Italian midfielder, who arrived from AC Milan in a £55 million deal less than two years ago, has reportedly expressed a desire to leave Tyneside, potentially disrupting Newcastle’s carefully laid transfer plans.

Tonali’s time at St. James’ Park has been a mix of promise and frustration. After making an immediate impact with a debut goal against Aston Villa, his momentum was derailed by a ten-month suspension for breaching betting regulations, which ruled him out for the majority of the 2023/24 season and Italy’s EURO 2024 campaign.

Despite this setback, he has returned strongly this term, contributing four goals in 36 appearances and forming a dynamic midfield partnership with Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton.

However, Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri claims that Newcastle’s hierarchy has become aware of Tonali’s wish to move on.

While the Magpies are still fighting for a top-five finish—which could secure Champions League football—the potential loss of the 23-year-old would force the club to rethink their summer strategy.

Tonali’s Impact and the Search for a Replacement

When available, Tonali has been a key figure in Howe’s system. His work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch have made him a fan favorite. Below is a breakdown of his Premier League performances this season compared to his Newcastle teammates:

While these numbers don’t place him at the very top of Newcastle’s rankings, his influence extends beyond raw statistics. His ability to dictate tempo and break up opposition play has been invaluable, particularly in big games.

Yet, Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints mean Newcastle may need to sell before they can buy. If Tonali departs, Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has emerged as a potential replacement.

The England international’s creativity and flair could offer a different dimension to Howe’s midfield, though his £60 million valuation presents another financial hurdle.

What’s Next for Newcastle?

Newcastle’s immediate focus remains securing European football. Sitting just 0 points behind Chelsea with one games in hand, a strong finish could see them return to the Champions League—a factor that might yet persuade Tonali to stay. However, if he pushes for an exit, the club must act decisively to fill the void.

Losing a player of Tonali’s caliber would undeniably be a setback, but Newcastle have shown resilience in the transfer market before.

Whether they reinvest in a like-for-like replacement or reshape their midfield entirely, the coming months will be crucial in shaping their trajectory under Eddie Howe’s leadership.

For now, all eyes are on Tonali. Will he commit to the Magpies’ project, or will this summer mark the end of his brief but memorable stint in the Premier League? Only time will tell.