Newcastle United are reportedly furious with the way Sandro Tonali has forced through a summer exit from St James’ Park, with the Italian midfielder now on the brink of joining Tottenham Hotspur.
A deal worth up to £100 million, including add-ons, has been agreed between the two clubs, bringing the 26-year-old closer to a switch to north London. Reports suggest doubts over Tonali’s future first emerged in January after his agent explored the possibility of a transfer, making it increasingly difficult for Newcastle to keep hold of him.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Newcastle’s hierarchy are disappointed by Tonali’s determination to leave. While early interest came from clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United, his decision to pursue a move to Tottenham has raised eyebrows, particularly as Spurs also failed to qualify for Europe last season.
Football Insider previously reported that Newcastle were caught off guard when Tonali made it clear he was open to joining Tottenham. Club officials are said to feel let down, believing they deserved greater loyalty after standing firmly behind the midfielder during his lengthy suspension linked to the betting scandal.
Brown claimed Newcastle have every reason to feel aggrieved, arguing that Tonali and his representatives actively worked behind the scenes to secure a move. From the club’s perspective, they invested significant support in the player during one of the most difficult periods of his career, only for him to seek an exit after a disappointing campaign in which the Magpies missed out on European football.
He added that while Newcastle may feel betrayed, the reality of modern football is that players often seek moves they believe will advance their careers. Brown suggested interest from elite clubs such as Arsenal and Manchester City may have influenced Tonali’s thinking, although whether Tottenham proves to be the right destination remains to be seen.
With Tonali set to depart, Newcastle must now find a replacement for a midfielder they had hoped to keep.
The Magpies also fear his exit may not be the last. Following their failure to secure European qualification, concerns are growing that other key players could also consider leaving. Anthony Gordon has already been linked with a move elsewhere, while Bruno Guimarães is reportedly attracting strong interest from Arsenal.
Brown believes Guimarães’ representatives have explored potential options after talks with Arsenal, with the Brazilian understood to be open to a move to the Emirates if an agreement can be reached. Newcastle remain determined to keep one of their most influential players and have already rejected an opening £55 million bid, but they could face increasing pressure if interest intensifies.
Leave a Reply