Real Madrid plans to raid Newcastle as Ancelotti tells some exceptional stars to sign
As Carlo Ancelotti prepares for what could be his final months at Real Madrid, the Italian maestro has set his sights on an unexpected target—Newcastle United’s midfield dynamo Sandro Tonali.
With Arsenal closing in on Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, Los Blancos have been forced to explore alternative options, and Tonali’s name has emerged as a prime candidate.
The 24-year-old Italian has been nothing short of sensational since arriving at St. James’ Park, quickly establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders.
His blend of technical mastery, relentless energy, and tactical intelligence has made him indispensable for Eddie Howe’s side, earning him high praise from his manager, who once described him as “exceptional.”
Despite a challenging start to his Newcastle career—marked by a 10-month suspension for gambling violations—Tonali has bounced back emphatically, playing a pivotal role in the Magpies’ Carabao Cup triumph and their push for European qualification.
Ancelotti’s Midfield
Real Madrid’s interest in Tonali comes as no surprise, given their long-standing admiration for elite midfield talent. With Zubimendi seemingly Arsenal-bound, Ancelotti has reportedly urged the club’s hierarchy to pursue either Tonali or Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister as potential reinforcements.
The Italian’s vision for Madrid’s midfield revolves around players who can dictate tempo, break lines, and contribute defensively—qualities Tonali possesses in abundance.
However, prising him away from Newcastle won’t be straightforward. The Telegraph recently revealed that Tonali has expressed his desire to remain on Tyneside long-term, dismissing speculation linking him with a return to Serie A.
Juventus had been touted as potential suitors, but Newcastle’s firm stance and Tonali’s contentment in England make any move unlikely. Manchester City’s reported interest further complicates matters, though Madrid’s prestige could still tempt the midfielder if they formalize their approach.
The Saliba Situation: Madrid’s Defensive Gambit
While midfield reinforcements are a priority, Real Madrid’s transfer plans don’t stop there. According to Marca, the Spanish giants are preparing a discreet but determined pursuit of Arsenal’s defensive stalwart William Saliba.
The Frenchman has been nothing short of phenomenal for the Gunners, forming one of the Premier League’s most formidable center-back partnerships with Gabriel.
Saliba’s composure, athleticism, and ability to play out from the back have made him a standout performer, attracting admiration from across Europe. Madrid president Florentino Pérez views him as the ideal candidate to bolster their backline, but Arsenal are unlikely to entertain any offers. With Gabriel also linked to the Saudi Pro League, the North London club cannot afford to lose both defensive pillars in one window.
A Summer of Strategic Moves
As Ancelotti’s tenure potentially nears its end, Real Madrid are laying the groundwork for a transformative summer. Their pursuit of Tonali underscores their desire for midfield control, while the Saliba links highlight their defensive ambitions.
Yet, both deals present significant challenges. Newcastle have no intention of selling their prized midfielder, and Arsenal will fight tooth and nail to retain Saliba.
For Tonali, the decision may come down to ambition versus stability. At Newcastle, he is the heartbeat of a rising project with passionate supporters and a manager who believes in him.
At Madrid, he would join a galaxy of stars competing for the game’s biggest honors. Similarly, Saliba faces the allure of the Bernabéu but remains integral to Arsenal’s quest for dominance under Mikel Arteta.
The Verdict
While Ancelotti’s wish list is ambitious, Real Madrid’s ability to land their targets remains uncertain. Tonali’s loyalty to Newcastle and Saliba’s importance to Arsenal make both deals difficult to execute.
However, if there’s one club capable of pulling off blockbuster transfers, it’s Madrid. As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Pérez can deliver Ancelotti’s desired reinforcements—or if these potential moves will remain nothing more than tantalizing speculation.
One thing is clear: the transfer saga surrounding Tonali and Saliba will be one of the most intriguing narratives of the upcoming window, with ramifications felt across Europe’s elite leagues.