Newcastle learn expected Sandro Tonali punishment after fresh gambling investigation

Newcastle United have received comforting clarity regarding midfielder Sandro Tonali’s involvement in a new Italian gambling investigation, with club sources confident the influential playmaker will avoid additional sporting sanctions.

The 23-year-old Italian, who recently returned from a ten-month suspension for previous betting offenses, finds himself named in reports about an illegal gambling platform – though this latest development appears unlikely to disrupt his burgeoning Newcastle career.

The Times revealed this week that prosecutors in Italy have expanded their investigation into unlawful betting activities, with Tonali among several high-profile players mentioned in connection with the probe.

However, critical distinctions from his previous case provide Newcastle with cause for optimism. Unlike the 2023 investigation that resulted in his lengthy ban, this inquiry focuses on an illicit gambling platform itself rather than player misconduct, and crucially, none of the alleged bets involved football matches.

The Magpies’ hierarchy have conducted due diligence on the matter and reportedly maintain “no concerns” about another suspension, though Tonali could face financial penalties if prosecutors establish criminal wrongdoing.

Italian authorities have made five arrests connected to the gambling platform, but no players remain in custody, with Juventus’ Weston McKennie and former PSG stars Ángel Di María and Leandro Paredes also named in reports.

Tonali’s return from suspension has coincided with Newcastle’s most successful period in decades. His midfield mastery helped deliver the Carabao Cup – ending the club’s 56-year trophy drought – while propelling Eddie Howe’s side into Champions League contention.

This resurgence has inevitably attracted attention from European giants, with Manchester City, Barcelona, and Real Madrid all reportedly monitoring the Italian international. Some outlets have even suggested Tonali has expressed a desire to depart St. James’ Park, though Newcastle have yet to receive any formal approaches.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Newcastle’s recruitment team appear to be preparing for all eventualities. Crystal Palace’s creative fulcrum Eberechi Eze and Liverpool’s versatile Harvey Elliott have emerged as potential targets, should Tonali’s situation change unexpectedly.

However, with the latest investigation unlikely to yield footballing consequences and Tonali contracted until 2028, Newcastle remain in a strong position to retain their midfield linchpin.

The episode underscores football’s ongoing battle with gambling-related issues, but for Newcastle fans, the immediate takeaway is reassuring.

Their £55 million record signing looks set to continue his influential role in the Magpies’ midfield as they push for European glory, with this latest legal development unlikely to derail what has become one of the Premier League’s most remarkable redemption stories.

As the investigation progresses, Newcastle can take comfort knowing their prized asset remains available to build on this season’s historic achievements.