Sandro Tonali agent delivers brutal truth to Serie A

The Italian media have been relentless in their coverage of Sandro Tonali since his return from a ten-month suspension, scrutinizing his every move as he regains top form for both Newcastle United and the Italian national team.

However, instead of celebrating his resurgence, they have fueled speculation about a potential return to Serie A, despite a complete lack of credible evidence. Wild claims have surfaced, including reports that Newcastle were willing to loan Tonali back to an Italian club in the recently closed January transfer window.

Others suggested a direct swap with Douglas Luiz, a player who has struggled at Juventus and has made only three league starts in six months.

Italian journalists have also spread narratives about Tonali being unhappy in England and desperate to return to any Serie A club willing to take him.

These rumors persist despite Tonali himself repeatedly affirming his happiness at St. James’ Park, his gratitude for the unwavering support from Newcastle fans during his suspension, and his strong commitment to repaying the faith the club has shown in him.

His performances on the pitch reflect that determination, making it clear he remains fully invested in Newcastle’s long-term project.

Now, Tonali’s agent, Beppe Riso, has set the record straight, delivering a harsh reality check to Serie A, the Italian media, and Italian football as a whole. Riso made it clear that even if Newcastle were willing to part ways with Tonali—a scenario that remains purely hypothetical—no Italian club could realistically afford to sign him.

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 25: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Newcastle United FC at St Mary’s Stadium on January 25, 2025 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

Newcastle paid AC Milan €58.9m (approximately £50m at today’s exchange rate) for Tonali in the summer of 2023, and given his performances since returning, his value has only skyrocketed.

At just 24 years old, Tonali has been one of the Premier League’s standout players this season, arguably second only to Alexander Isak in terms of form and overall importance to Newcastle’s success.

His impact in midfield has been immense, making the idea of selling him absurd, particularly as Newcastle continues to build a squad capable of long-term dominance. Alongside players like Isak, Anthony Gordon, Sven Botman, Lewis Hall, and Tino Livramento, Tonali represents the foundation of an exciting future at St. James’ Park.

Speaking to La Repubblica, Riso dismissed the baseless reports circulating in the Italian press, emphasizing that Newcastle sees Tonali as a key asset and that the financial realities of modern football make a return to Serie A highly unlikely.

He stated unequivocally that Tonali is one of the best midfielders in the world and that his market value has reached a level beyond what any Italian club can afford. Riso’s comments serve as the ultimate rebuttal to the constant speculation, reinforcing the fact that Tonali’s career trajectory is firmly set away from Serie A.

Newcastle’s investment in Tonali was not a short-term gamble but a strategic move to build a midfield capable of competing at the highest level. His presence in the squad not only elevates Newcastle’s ambitions but also solidifies their intent to challenge the Premier League elite.

As the Italian media continue to indulge in fanciful transfer rumors, the reality remains unchanged—Tonali is thriving at Newcastle, and barring an unprecedented turn of events, he will continue to play a central role in the club’s future.