Chelsea Ready Massive Transfer Raid For Newcastle Midfield Anchor: Should The Magpies Cash In Or Hold Firm? | OneFootball

Journalist Wayne Veysey reports that Chelsea are monitoring Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali as a top target for the summer of 2026. The West London club are looking for proven Premier League talent to bolster their midfield.

Specifically, they see the 25-year-old Italian as the right fit to improve their options. Although the Blues already have a talented core with Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, and Enzo Fernandez, the club’s leadership seem to have real concerns about their depth.

Management think they can find an upgrade for Andrey Santos. At the same time, Romeo Lavia’s constant injury issues are forcing them to look for more reliable alternatives. So, Tonali fits their needs perfectly after his strong performances this season.

Still, pulling him away from St. James’ Park will be a huge task for any club. Sandro Tonali recently committed to the Magpies by signing a deal that runs until the summer of 2029. On top of that, the Newcastle board feel he owes them his loyalty.

The club supported him unwaveringly through his ten-month betting ban. They now expect him to return that favour by staying on Tyneside. So, Veysey suggests that Chelsea would have to offer a massive amount of money to even get Newcastle United to consider a sale.

Analysis: Should Newcastle United sell or retain their star midfielder?

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Old Trafford on December 26, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Newcastle United have a big decision to make if Chelsea follow up their interest with a real bid. Looking at it strictly from a football side, selling Sandro Tonali makes no sense for a club trying to reach the Champions League. Eddie Howe has made the Italian a key part of his system. The midfielder offers a combination of grit and skill that the rest of the squad just doesn’t have.

Besides, the club supported him during the lowest point of his career. It would go against the club’s long-term plans if they sell him right as he hits his stride and finds his best form. It could also upset a fanbase that cares about loyalty more than anything else.

However, today’s football world is governed by strict financial rules. These rules make even simple decisions difficult. If Chelsea offer a price way above his market value, Newcastle’s owners might see it as a trade-off they have to make to improve other parts of the team.

Even with that money on the table, Tonali will likely stay at St. James’ Park. The player probably recognises how much he owes the club for supporting him during his suspension. Unless Chelsea come in with a record-breaking fee, Newcastle United will almost certainly say no. The Magpies want to compete with the best teams, and keeping their top talent is the only way to get there.