Newcastle star linked with Real Madrid, Barcelona & Man City expresses desire to leave | OneFootball

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is reported to have informed the club of his desire to leave, which could pave the way for summer investment in a replacement.

Tonali returned from a ten-month suspension in August 2024, having only played a handful of games for Newcastle following a £55m transfer from AC Milan at the time he was banned.

This season, the Italy international has played a crucial role as the Magpies aim to return to the Champions League, as well as already lifting a first major trophy in 56 years.

But it may not last. Sky Sport in Switzerland claims that Newcastle have now "learned of Tonali's desire to leave" St James' Park. There have been links with Manchester City, who are tasked with replacing Kevin De Bruyne in an ageing midfield, as well as Real Madrid.

More recently, there have been Barcelona rumours, although financial limitations are again set to influence business in Catalonia. Talk of a return to Italy in order to join Juventus has also surfaced.

Tonali has enjoyed a strong season with Newcastle / Stu Forster/GettyImages

Although a different kind of player, the same report notes that Eberechi Eze has been identified as an "ideal replacement". The Crystal Palace 'number ten' and England international is available for up to £60m, the price of a release clause. Eze has 17 goals and assists this season.

The idea would be for Eddie Howe to integrate Eze into a three-man midfield in Newcastle colours. That could mean a slightly different role for either Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes to accommodate Eze's more attacking tendencies compared to Tonali, who has typically been the 'number six'.

Alternatively, Newcastle are also being linked with Harvey Elliott, who has struggled for game time at Liverpool this season and is priced at a reported £40m.