Sandro Tonali’s recent comments have sparked fresh speculation about his future at Newcastle United, with reports suggesting the midfielder could be eyeing a return to Italy sooner rather than later.
The Italian international, who delivered a standout Man of the Match performance in Newcastle’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday, has hinted that his long-term plans may not lie entirely on Tyneside.
After the game, Tonali was asked about his future with the Magpies and gave an answer that left plenty open to interpretation. Speaking candidly, he said, “It’s a difficult question because in football you have to think season by season.
I don’t want to say I’ll stay here for ten years and then maybe leave in two or three. I only want to think about myself.” His response, though measured, has been seen by many as a subtle sign that he’s already thinking ahead to life beyond St James’ Park.
According to reports from Corriere della Sera, Tonali has been telling close friends that he’s feeling homesick and misses life in Italy.
The newspaper claims that those within his inner circle believe a move back home is not just a passing thought but something that could happen in the near future.
Sources reportedly close to the midfielder have said that he’s open about his longing to return to his roots and that this desire could shape his next big career move.
The same report adds that Tonali could become a central figure in the 2026 summer transfer window, with a number of Serie A clubs already keeping an eye on the situation.
Juventus, in particular, are said to have maintained their interest after failing to secure his signature last summer. Newcastle were reportedly demanding around €100 million for the midfielder at the time, a figure that proved too high for Juventus to meet.
Their then sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, was an admirer of Tonali and pushed for the deal, but financial constraints made it impossible to complete.
Since arriving at Newcastle, Tonali has shown flashes of his immense talent, with his technical ability, vision, and work rate fitting seamlessly into Eddie Howe’s high-tempo system.
However, adapting to a new country, language, and culture has been challenging for the 24-year-old. Sources around the club suggest he’s still adjusting to life in England, and while his performances on the pitch have been solid, his off-field happiness remains a concern.
For Newcastle, the idea of losing a player of Tonali’s quality so soon after his arrival would be a major blow. He was signed to be a cornerstone of the club’s long-term project, a player to help bridge the gap between Newcastle and Europe’s elite.
Yet football careers are unpredictable, and Tonali’s words serve as a reminder of the personal challenges players often face when moving abroad.
For now, Tonali remains fully committed to Newcastle’s cause, and his professionalism on the pitch continues to speak for itself.
But with growing whispers of homesickness and renewed interest from Serie A giants, the next few transfer windows could prove decisive in determining whether his future stays in black and white or returns to the red, white, and green of Italy.
