Newcastle United have moved to shut down speculation linking Sandro Tonali with a big-money summer move to Manchester United, insisting the Italian midfielder is not for sale despite growing interest from Premier League rivals.
Reports in recent days have suggested Newcastle could demand as much as £100 million for Tonali, with Manchester United and Chelsea both credited with interest.
However, sources at St James’ Park have dismissed claims that the club are preparing for a sale, maintaining that Tonali remains central to their long-term plans.
Club stance clear despite transfer noise
Newcastle are understood to be determined to avoid a repeat of last summer’s Alexander Isak situation, when uncertainty over the striker’s future dominated the narrative around the club.
Senior figures have rejected the idea that Newcastle are a “selling club” and insist Tonali is viewed as a cornerstone of the current project.
According to iNews, talk of a nine-figure valuation is inaccurate, with the club’s position described internally and externally as firm: Tonali is simply not available, regardless of the offer.
The 25-year-old joined from AC Milan and, despite Newcastle enduring a difficult transitional campaign, remains highly rated by the club’s hierarchy, who see him as key to their tactical identity and future rebuild.
Interest from rivals grows
Manchester United are reported to have added Tonali to a long list of midfield options as they plan for life beyond Casemiro, while Chelsea are also said to be monitoring his situation.
For Chelsea, Tonali is viewed as an alternative to other targets, including AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, who is also admired by Newcastle.
Some of the speculation is believed to be driven by assumptions that Newcastle may need to sell players to balance finances, particularly after claims on deadline day that Tonali had been offered to Arsenal, a suggestion dismissed by the club as a “non-starter”.
Player loyalty and contract protection
Newcastle take confidence from Tonali’s own stance. The Italy international is understood to have reassured the club of his commitment, with sources citing his gratitude for the support he received during his 10-month gambling ban as a major factor.
Tonali also signed a long-term contract extension during that period, leaving Newcastle in total control of his future and under no immediate pressure to cash in.